70 years after Walt Disney opened his family park, on what was once an orange grove in Anaheim just outside Los Angeles, the Disneyland Resort dream is not only alive but flourishing. Since 1955, it’s expanded to include two theme parks, three hotels and the Downtown Disney District.
Celebrations kicked off mid-May ahead of the official anniversary on July 17, 2025, and continue through Summer 2026, honouring seven decades of The Happiest Place on Earth – and many more moments of joy to come.
“Celebrate happy” with magical entertainment
The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration introduces all-new entertainment experiences at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, alongside some returning fan-favourites.
01. “Paint the Night” parade returns!
Prepare to be delighted as the beloved “Paint the Night” parade returns to Disneyland Park. The high-energy nighttime spectacular features over a million brilliant LEDs, while unique tunes will have guests of all ages grooving along.
In addition to Disney and Pixar film favourites, “Paint the Night” features a custom rendition of Owl City’s “When Can I See You Again”, the official 70th song “Celebrate Happy” and a throwback to the original “Main Street Electrical Parade” theme. Anna and Elsa from “Frozen” rejoin the parade for the first time since its initial run.
02. “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular
A tribute to Walt Disney Animation Studios, the “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular tells the story of an artist chasing their dreams. Iconic Disneyland Park landmarks such as Sleeping Beauty Castle, Main Street, U.S.A., Rivers of America and the façade of “it’s a small world” become a canvas for colourful projections and lighting effects, enhanced with fireworks on select nights.
Share the journey of imagination, excitement and determination with characters from “Hercules,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Peter Pan,” “Treasure Planet,” “Big Hero 6,” “Frozen” and “Wish” in this memorable entertainment experience, returning for a limited time during the 70th Celebration.
03. “World of Color Happiness!” nighttime spectacular
Hosted by Joy and the other Emotions from Pixar Animation Studios’ “Inside Out 2,” the new “World of Color Happiness!” nighttime spectacular at Disney California Adventure Park explores “happy” from start to finish through moments and characters from “Turning Red,” “A Goofy Movie,” “Encanto” and more.
The experience is inspired by Walt Disney’s words from the opening day park dedication from seven decades ago: “To all who come to this happy place… welcome!”. The water show features a rendition of “Rainbow Connection” performed by R&B group Boyz II Men, plus an original song “Makes Me Wanna Move,” performed by FITZ – frontman of Fitz and the Tantrums. Don’t miss the special pre-show moment with over a dozen of The Muppets.
04. “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” parade
The daytime parade, “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!”, returns as a colourful celebration of friendship in the heart of Disney California Adventure Park.
From rocking out to your favourite boy band to celebrating the sweet things in life, over two dozen Pixar Animation Studios characters star in this heartwarming, high-energy demonstration of why life is better when we do it together.
05. “The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade”
Embrace the joy of Disneyland Park as you clap, sing and dance along with Mickey Mouse and pals! Characters are all dressed in new custom looks for the special celebration, with layers of multicoloured organza to match the Park’s 70th Celebration decor and merchandise.
“The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade” also features fun characters rarely seen at Disneyland Park, like Duffy and ShellieMay.
06. Magical projection and light shows
Every evening, the Art Deco–inspired façade of Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure Park lights up in the signature 70th Anniversary Celebration colours. It’s an invitation to “Celebrate Happy: A Little Bit of Magic Every Night” in a whirlwind of light and colour that feels just like fantasy.
“Tapestry of Happiness” is described as “a visual love letter to Disneyland Park,” brought to life through an animated mosaic of art, music and treasured memories. See classic rides and special moments from the Park’s history dance across the exterior of “it’s a small world” in the timeless style of legendary Disney artist Mary Blair.
Book your Disney holiday here with Mr. Chocolate’s Travel
To enter a park, both a theme park reservation and a valid ticket for the same park on the same date is required. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability, and not guaranteed. Parks, attractions, entertainment, experiences, services, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for more information about visiting the Disneyland Resort.
Make your trip even more magical: Stay longer in Anaheim!
Visiting Disneyland Resort in California, especially for the 70th Celebration, is a dream come true. Instead of a quick visit, why not plan a full week to explore all that Anaheim has to offer? Break up your Disneyland Resort trips with fun day tours, memorable road trips, fantastic shopping opportunities, and plenty of budget-friendly activities that will make your family holiday truly extraordinary.
Ready to plan an incredible seven days in Anaheim with your kids? We have some great suggestions here.
USA travel tips
Getting there
Qantas, Virgin Australia, United, Delta and American Airlines are among the airlines that fly from Australia to Los Angeles International Airport. If you’d rather avoid LAX, fly via Honolulu with Hawaiian Airlines to Long Beach Airport, which is around a 25-minute drive from Anaheim. Book an airport shuttle with Karmel Shuttle in advance to get to your accommodation.
Stay right in Anaheim!
Choosing a hotel in Anaheim is a game-changer! The convenience of being moments away from “The Happiest Place on Earth,” with more time for rides, parades, and all the enchantment. Anaheim hotels are perfectly set up for families. There are fantastic family suites, kid-friendly options, pools and more to unwind after a fun-filled day.
Budget tips
Between discount attraction tickets and budget-friendly accommodation, you can take the kids to Anaheim without breaking the bank. California’s theme park capital offers great value for money, so there’s no need to spend big to travel to other, more expensive cities. In fact, there are lots of free and cheap activities to fill out your Anaheim itinerary—the longer you stay, the better value your holiday becomes!
