Complete Guide to Disneyland Resort’s 70th Anniversary Celebration
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“To all who come to this happy place: WELCOME. Disneyland is your land.” These iconic words, spoken by Walt Disney on the opening day of Disneyland Park, July 17, 1955, welcomed guests into a realm of magic and imagination. This milestone indicates that Disneyland Resort will commemorate its 70th anniversary in 2025, celebrating seven decades as The Happiest Place on Earth.
Of course, it wouldn’t be an anniversary without a celebration. And if anyone knows how to celebrate, it is Disney!
The Disneyland Resort’s 70th Celebration is set to kick off on May 16th, 2025, and will continue through the summer of 2026. This spectacular event promises the return of fan-favorite shows, limited-time entertainment, vibrant decorations, unique food and drink offerings, exclusive merchandise, and so much more!
Let’s take a look at some of the special offerings for the celebration!
Special Entertainment for the 70th Anniversary
Few things capture pure joy better than dancing along the parade route or gazing in awe at fireworks illuminating the skies above Sleeping Beauty Castle. Renowned for its dazzling entertainment, Disneyland is set to enchant guests during its 70th celebration with brand-new entertainment experiences, while also bringing back beloved fan-favorites throughout the resort.
Celebrate Happy
To commemorate the 70th anniversary, a lively new theme song entitled “Celebrate Happy” will be showcased throughout the celebrations across various entertainment experiences, performed by the Jonas Brothers. The song “Celebrate Happy” will be available for streaming on all major music platforms starting May 13.
Paint the Night Parade
The Paint the Night Parade will be returning to Disneyland Park for this once-in-a-lifetime celebration event! The fan favorite parade will once again dazzle guests as it makes its way down Main Street U.S.A.
Mickey Mouse uses his vivid imagination with the help of Tinker Bell’s pixie dust to “Paint the Night” with Disney Dreams. This parade features millions of lights, vibrant costumes, unforgettable music and amazing performances. Innovative floats feature characters from “Monster’s Inc.”, “Cars,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Frozen,” and much more!
This return of the Paint the Night parade marks the first time it has returned to Main Street U.S.A. since its initial run at Disneyland.
World of Color Happiness
A new “World of Color” show, titled “World of Color Happiness,” will soon debut. This nighttime spectacular draws inspiration from Walt Disney’s iconic opening day words: “To all who come to this happy place… welcome!”
Joy and the other emotions from Inside Out and Inside Out 2 will host an enchanting new nighttime spectacular. Audiences will embark on a journey through some of Disney’s most iconic stories, featuring memorable music and moments from Turning Red, A Goofy Movie, Tangled, The Lion King, and more.
Boyz II Men will showcase their renowned R&B vocals in a rendition of “Rainbow Connection,” while FITZ — from Fitz and the Tantrums — will premiere a new original song for “World of Color” titled “Makes Me Wanna Move.” Additionally, over a dozen of The Muppets will present a special message prior to the show.
Before the evening’s first “World of Color Happiness!” show, guests at California Adventure can use the Disneyland app to vote for one of four Emotions — Sadness, Anger, Disgust, or Envy — to see them featured in special scenes during both performances that day. Make sure to enable push notifications and location services on your device to receive timely reminders to cast your vote.
Wondrous Journeys
“Wondrous Journeys” will also make its return during Disneyland Resort’s 70th Celebration*. This nighttime spectacular honors the legacy of Walt Disney Animation Studios and takes audiences on a captivating journey through some of its most iconic characters and stories.
This spectacular show features stunning projection effects on iconic locations like Sleeping Beauty Castle, Main Street, U.S.A., the Rivers of America, and “it’s a small world,” immersing you in your favorite stories like never before. On select evenings, the magic is elevated even further with an enchanting fireworks display that lights up the night sky!
*Please be aware that Disney shares that: “Wondrous Journeys nighttime spectacular will temporarily pause to make way for seasonal Halloween and Holidays entertainment offerings, then resume at a later time.”
Better Together: A Pixar Celebration!
As part of the festivities, “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” makes its return to the streets of California Adventure. This enchanting daytime parade features captivating music, vibrant and dynamic floats, and over two dozen beloved characters from Pixar Animation Studios films, including “Luca,” “Turning Red,” “Up,” and more. The parade highlights the heartwarming narratives of cherished Pixar films, celebrating friendship and beyond.
Tapestry of Happiness
At Disneyland, the facade of “it’s a small world” will be illuminated each night with light, music, and projection effects. “Tapestry of Happiness” will showcase an animated mosaic celebrating Disneyland attractions, moments, and memories, brought to life in a distinctive style inspired by the legendary Disney artist Mary Blair. The display will feature the original 70th celebration theme song, “Celebrate Happy,” complemented by familiar Disneyland melodies spanning the decades.
“Tapestry of Happiness” will serve as a visual homage to Disneyland, uniting us through cherished memories of The Happiest Place on Earth. It will emphasize that regardless of age or origin, we are all drawn together in this enchanting realm through the perspective of our inner child, discovering joy in a uniquely personal manner.
Celebrate Happy with Mickey and Friends
Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their friends are set to dazzle in Town Square at Disneyland Park, all dressed up in stunning custom outfits created especially for the celebration. These playful and modern designs are brimming with bright pops of color and sparkling embellishments, adding a festive flair to the occasion. Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with your favorite characters as they shine in these vibrant and joyful looks!
Celebrate Happy Cavalcade
Disneyland Park is set to introduce a new character cavalcade titled “The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade.” As it moves along the parade route, beloved characters will invite guests to join in with dancing and clapping during a lively and modern celebration of seven decades of joy. Among the characters featured are Goofy and Max dressed in their 70th anniversary outfits, along with rarely seen friends such as Duffy and ShellieMay, the delightful teddy bear duo from Duffy and Friends.
Decor Throughout the Resort
In the esplanade between Disneyland and California Adventure, visitors cannot overlook the modern 50-foot sculpture inspired by Sleeping Beauty Castle, adorned with vibrant glass panels and golden charms symbolizing the five original lands.
As you enter Disneyland Park, you will be greeted by the iconic floral Mickey, adorned with a vibrant display of flowers. Multi-colored banners and bunting will embellish Main Street, U.S.A., adding to the festive atmosphere. At the heart of Town Square, a special installation featuring Mickey and Minnie, created exclusively for the anniversary, will be on display.
An elegant medallion will adorn Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure Park will be adorned in 70th-anniversary colors. In the evenings, the restaurant’s exterior will invite guests to partake in a “Celebrate Happy” moment featuring music, lights, and projection effects. Accompanied by the tune of “Celebrate Happy,” this interlude enhances the ambiance of Carthay Circle and Buena Vista Street with shimmering lights, dynamic projections, and vibrant bursts of color.
70th décor will also extend into the Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort.
New Magic on Classic Attractions
A new character is set to join Disneyland’s “it’s a small world” attraction. For those unaware, specific scenes in the ride already feature Disney characters such as Cinderella, Alice, Lilo, Stitch, and others. Miguel and Dante from the Pixar film Coco will soon be part of this line-up. According to Disney, this addition, highlighted by a stunning marigold bridge, will be visible when the attraction reopens on April 25, 2025, well ahead of May 16th.
Additionally, starting July 17th, riders of the classic attraction will hear a new verse to :it’s a small world,” which was written by Richard M. Sherman “in his final Disney contribution.” The new verse is below:
“Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind
And the love we give makes us humankind
Through our vast wondrous land
When we stand hand in hand
It’s a small world after all.”
Even the toys are joining in the celebration! On Toy Story Midway Mania at California Adventure, observe tributes to the 70th anniversary as you strive for the highest score in carnival-themed games.
All the Merch!
Explore everything the 70th celebration has in store as you browse brand-new merchandise collections created exclusively for this milestone anniversary. From headwear, clothing, and accessories to plush items, toys, and home décor, there is something for everyone to bring home as a keepsake of their visit during this memorable celebration.
Take a glimpse at some of the items from the Celebration Collection arriving at Disneyland Resort ahead of the festivities! For additional details on merchandise, refer to the guide to Disneyland Resort’s 70th celebration merchandise.
Walt Disney – A Magical Life
Although it is not officially an Anniversary offering, as it will be a permanent addition, something new and unprecedented is set to arrive at Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland, Walt Disney’s original park. This exciting feature will make its debut on July 17, 2025, coinciding with the 70th Anniversary of Disneyland’s opening day.
For the first time ever, visitors will experience Walt Disney brought to life through the magic of Audio-Animatronics technology in a new presentation at the Main Street Opera House: Walt Disney — A Magical Life!
New Experiences as you Walk Through Disneyland Resort
Beyond the excitement of thrilling adventures and heartwarming shows, there is immense joy and nostalgia in simply strolling through Disneyland Resort. In celebration of the 70th anniversary, visitors can encounter new experiences that highlight distinctive details to admire during their journey through the park.
A Story of Celebration: 70th Anniversary Guided Tour is an exciting new add-on experience that Disneyland history enthusiasts will not want to miss. This two-hour walking tour delves into the rich heritage of Disneyland Park, covering everything from opening day attractions to the latest innovations. As participants visit iconic locations throughout the park, they will gain deeper insight into Walt Disney’s vision for this joyful place and its remarkable evolution over the decades. Reservations will be available on Disneyland.com starting April 24, 2025. Additional fees and restrictions will apply.
MagicBand+
Utilize your MagicBand+ as you explore Disneyland Park to uncover five delightful surprises across Main Street, U.S.A., Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Frontierland. At each location, your MagicBand+ activates distinctive interactions and effects inspired by the park’s opening day attractions, enhancing the nostalgic charm of your celebration.
The MagicBand+ adds an extra layer of magic to the anniversary celebrations, interacting with enchanting entertainment like “Paint the Night,” “Tapestry of Happiness,” “World of Color Happiness!” and “Wondrous Journeys.” It synchronizes with dazzling lights and gentle vibrations, creating a truly immersive experience. For those without a MagicBand+, special anniversary-themed designs are available for purchase to commemorate this milestone.
Keep an eye out for Disney PhotoPass cast members during your journey to capture magical memories sprinkled with pixie dust. As part of the 70th celebration, Disneyland and California Adventure are introducing an array of exciting photo enhancements, including brand-new Magic Shots and Disney PhotoPass Lenses. Starting May 16, don’t miss the chance to try the Mickey and Minnie Magic Shot near the Disneyland park main entrance and Sleeping Beauty Castle!
Key to Disneyland
The Key to Disneyland is a giant key that interacts with various 70th Anniversary lock stations.
Upon purchasing the key, guests can embark on an adventure and activate special features while exploring the 70th Anniversary lock stations in each land of Disneyland Park. Once all nine lands are unlocked, the key will reveal one of nine hidden commemorative keepsake pins inside, adding a touch of magic to the experience. Additionally, the key tracks progress, allowing guests to unlock lands at their convenience throughout the 70th anniversary celebration, whether in a single day or over multiple visits.
The locations of the 70th Anniversary Lock Stations are as follows:
- Disneyland Fire Station on Main Street, U.S.A.
- Aladdin’s Lamp inside Adventureland Bazaar in Adventureland
- In New Orleans Square
- Outside of Pooh Corner in Bayou Country
- Across from Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
- Wilderness Expeditions and Delivery Service Wagon (near the entrance to Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge) in Frontierland
- Across from Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin in Mickey’s Toontown
- Fantasy Faire in Fantasyland
- Near the exit of Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters in Tomorrowland
Limited Time Hotel and Ticket Offers
To make the most of the 70th celebration at an even greater value, Disneyland Resort will offer a limited-time, multi-day theme park ticket for as low as $120 per day with a special 3-Day, 1-Park per day ticket, for a total price of $360. Or guests may save even more — as low as $100 per day — with a special 4-Day, 1-Park per day ticket, for a total price of $400.Â
This Disneyland Anniversary Ticket Offer is on sale now for visitation May 16-Aug. 14, 2025. Providing a variety of options and flexibility, guests may choose from 3-Day or 4-Day park tickets with options available to upgrade to Park Hopper tickets and to add on Lightning Lane Multi Pass.
There are even special savings at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, where guests can stay and play in the heart of the magic at the Disneyland Hotel, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel, Pixar Place Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. By planning ahead, you can make reservations now and save up to 30% on select stays of four or more nights May 16-Sept. 26, 2025.  Bookings must be made by May 15, 2025. Subject to availability and restrictions.**Â
Additional hotel offers are on sale now and offer savings up to 20% on select stays at a Disneyland Resort Hotel May 16-Aug. 14, 2025, subject to availability and restrictions.
Throughout the celebration, you can visit Disneyland.com/offers for details on available ticket and hotel options to help you save on your vacation
Keep your eyes peeled here at Disney Park Pal for more 70th news and guides as Disney releases more information about this upcoming event! Don’t forget to follow along on social media @DisneyParkPalBlog to stay up to date on all the latest news! See ya real soon!
