Credit: Brandi Alexandra, UnsplashIf you were planning on visiting Disneyland in 2025, Disney just dropped a few announcements that have convinced us to wait until May to plan that grand vacation.
Nearly 10 years ago we saw Disneyland utterly transform to celebrate it’s 60th anniversary, which gave fans a reminder that the West Coast knew how to celebrate a milestone.
Disneyland’s 60th anniversary, celebrated from May 22, 2015, through September 5, 2016, was a massive event officially known as the “Diamond Celebration.” The celebration marked six decades since the park’s grand opening in 1955 and featured new attractions, shows, and decor across the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California.
Now, with the 70th anniversary just months away, Disneyland has some special surprises planned for guests.
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary: A Celebration of Happiness, Legacy, and Innovation
The countdown has begun for Disneyland Resort’s 70th anniversary celebration, promising an unforgettable experience for visitors starting May 16, 2025. Running through the summer of 2026, this milestone will honor Disneyland Park’s iconic history while bringing fresh magic to both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
With new shows, returning fan favorites, and a celebration spanning over a year, Disney is poised to make its 70th anniversary one of the most spectacular events in its history.
A Celebration of Walt Disney’s Vision
At the heart of the festivities is Walt Disney – A Magical Life, a groundbreaking addition to Disneyland Park’s Main Street Opera House. This presentation will feature an Audio-Animatronics version of Walt Disney himself, a first for the company. Visitors can expect an inspiring journey through Walt’s story, highlighting his dreams and the creation of Disneyland, the park that started it all.
New Nighttime Spectacles
Disney has unveiled plans for an entirely new version of Disney California Adventure’s beloved water show: World of Color Happiness! This reimagined nighttime spectacular will be hosted by Joy and the Emotions from Pixar’s Inside Out series.
Drawing inspiration from Walt Disney’s iconic opening day dedication — “To all who come to this happy place: Welcome!” — the show will explore happiness as a kaleidoscope of emotions. Expect stunning moments from Disney and Pixar classics, including Tangled, Turning Red, The Lion King, and A Goofy Movie, brought to life through vibrant fountains, lasers, fog, flame effects, and music.
Meanwhile, over at Disneyland Park, the popular Wondrous Journeys nighttime spectacular will return. Featuring projections on Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world,” and even the Rivers of America, this show will celebrate the rich storytelling legacy of Walt Disney Animation Studios, with nods to classics like Peter Pan and Hercules alongside modern hits like Encanto and Frozen. On select nights, fireworks will elevate the spectacle.
Parades and Entertainment to Delight Fans Old and New
Guests will be thrilled to see the return of the dazzling Paint the Night parade, one of the most beloved parades in Disney history. This LED-lit spectacle will illuminate Disneyland Park once again, bringing a vibrant glow to the anniversary celebration.
Over at Disney California Adventure, the Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! parade will also make its return. Featuring beloved Pixar characters, this high-energy parade showcases camaraderie, storytelling, and nostalgia for all ages.
Additionally, Disneyland Park will introduce a brand-new cavalcade, Mickey and Friends Celebrate Happy!, featuring Mickey and his pals in colorful anniversary-themed costumes.
Magical Makeovers and Meet-and-Greets
Sleeping Beauty Castle will once again become a sparkling centerpiece, adorned with a commemorative 70th-anniversary medallion and dazzling decor. Nighttime projections will light up it’s a small world at Disneyland Park and Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure, adding another layer of magic to the festivities.
Fans can also look forward to meeting Mickey, Minnie, and other favorite characters in new celebratory outfits, perfect for capturing unforgettable memories.
What’s Next for the Happiest Place on Earth?
The 70th-anniversary celebration reflects Disney’s commitment to blending nostalgia with innovation. Whether it’s experiencing the nostalgia of returning favorites like Paint the Night or marveling at cutting-edge technology in World of Color Happiness!, the festivities promise something for everyone.
As Disneyland prepares for this monumental celebration, fans are eagerly anticipating more surprises that may be announced in the coming months. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney enthusiast or planning your first visit, 2025 will be a year to remember at the Disneyland Resort.
Mark your calendars — the magic begins May 16, 2025!
Would you postpone your Disneyland vacation knowing what is to come in May?