Disneyland celebrates its 70th birthday next year. Here’s what to expect from the festivities and beyond
The year 2025 is set to be a monumental year for Disneyland, making it an ideal time for a visit.
Disneyland is not only turning 70, but there will also be exciting special events and festivities happening 340 days out of the year, according to an announcement from the California resort. Highlights will include a new after-hours 90s Nite, the return of the cherished Paint the Night parade, and the introduction of the very first audio-animatronic figure of Walt Disney himself.
“We are at a unique moment, 70 years after Disneyland’s opening, where our technological advancements align perfectly with our desire to share Walt’s story, allowing new generations of Disney fans to have a glimpse of what it was like to be in the presence of Walt,” stated Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, during the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience this summer. This celebration holds personal significance for him as he has been a cast member at Disneyland for 26 years.
Here’s a complete overview of Disneyland’s plans for its 70th anniversary, along with events throughout 2025 to help with your planning.
Celebrating Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary
Disneyland first opened its doors on July 17, 1955. However, the 70th anniversary festivities will commence on May 16 and continue through the summer of 2026. The theme for the celebration will be “Celebrate Happy.”
The anniversary events will feature a revival of several beloved past experiences, including the return of the “Paint the Night” nighttime parade and “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime show at Disneyland Park, which will include fireworks on selected nights. Additionally, the “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” parade will make a comeback at Disney California Adventure. Both “Wondrous Journeys” and “Better Together” will take breaks during the Halloween and holiday seasons before resuming afterward.
The 70th anniversary celebrations will also introduce a new nighttime show called “World of Color Happiness!” along with fresh nighttime projections on the Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure. Disneyland Park will unveil a new character cavalcade, enhanced projections on the iconic “it’s a small world” attraction, updated outfits for Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, and festive decorations adorning Sleeping Beauty Castle. Additionally, a new anniversary song titled “Celebrate Happy” will be played throughout the duration of the festivities.
The audio-animatronic figure of Walt Disney will debut on May 16 as part of a new attraction titled “Walt Disney – A Magical Life.” This attraction will begin with a cinematic overview of his life and conclude with a visit to his office where the audio-animatronic figure will be displayed. Unlike the temporary anniversary experiences, this attraction will remain available beyond its initial run and will be featured alongside The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln at the Main Street Opera House theater in Disneyland Park.
Festivals and Events Returning
- Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure – January 17 to February 16
- Anaheim Ducks Day at Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney District – January 24
- Celebrate Gospel at Disneyland Park – February 8 and 15
- Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival – February 28 to April 21
- Season of the Force at Disneyland Park – March 28 to May 11
- Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party at Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney District – Summer dates to be announced
- Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort – August 22 to October 31
- Plaza de la Familia at Disney California Adventure Park – August 22 to November 2
- Holidays at the Disneyland Resort – November 14 to January 7, 2026
Evening Events
The after-hours events at Disneyland are not part of the regular park entry fee. They need distinct, specialized tickets, which tend to sell out quickly. In the upcoming year, there will be four distinct themed Disneyland After Dark events, along with Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party, each taking place over several nights.
Sweethearts’ Nite – Jan. 21, 23, 28; Feb. 4, 6, 9, 11, 13
This event is not just for couples; it honors love with iconic Disney duos, a royal ball, a new cavalcade, and much more. Tickets go on sale for the general public on Dec. 12, 2024.
90s Nite – March 4 and 6
This new event will include dance parties, sing-alongs, and the “90s on Parade,” which pays tribute to past parades like “The Lion King Celebration” and “Mulan Parade.” Tickets for the general public will also be available starting Dec. 12, 2024.
Star Wars Nite – April 8, 10, 22, 24, 29 and May 1, 4, 6
Disneyland promises special character meet-and-greets, “one-of-a-kind gatherings, and fantastical photo opportunities.” More details about ticket sales will be announced soon.
Pride Nite – June 16 and 18
Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party
The Oogie Boogie Bash next year will be the longest yet, held over 31 exclusive nights, starting even before the daytime Halloween Time events kick off at the resort. Ticket sale details will be disclosed later.
- Aug. 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, 28, 31
- Sept. 2, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30
- Oct. 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26, 28, 31
The Cost of a One-Day Disneyland Ticket
The price of Disneyland tickets varies based on the date and demand.
A standard one-day, one-park ticket for either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure begins at $104 for guests aged 10 and older. For those wanting to add Park Hopper access, the extra cost is $65.
Ways to Save
The well-liked $50 kids ticket offer is returning for visits from Jan. 7 to March 20, offering nearly a 50% discount off the regular price for one-day, one-park tickets for children aged 3 to 9.
Residents of Southern California can purchase a specially-priced three-day ticket, reducing the cost to $67 per day for visits from Jan. 1 to May 15.
Further details regarding discounted hotel stays and special offers for military personnel and Magic Key (annual pass) holders can be found on the resort’s official site.
Additionally, for guests visiting this year, Disneyland is running a promotion for Disney+ subscribers, where you can buy two days and receive one day at no cost until Dec. 27, 2024.
(This article has been updated with fresh information.)
