Disney parades have always been one of the most magical parts of visiting the parks. The music, the lights, the dancing, and the characters combine to create an unforgettable experience. From classics like the Main Street Electrical Parade to SpectroMagic, fans have come to expect these dazzling nighttime celebrations to bring Main Street, U.S.A. to life.
When Disneyland introduced the Paint the Night Parade during its Diamond 60th Anniversary Celebration in 2015, it immediately became a fan favorite. The catchy anthem “When Can We Do This Again” from Wreck-It Ralph (2012) had guests clapping and singing along, while floats featuring Peter Pan, Buzz Lightyear, Lightning McQueen, Anna, Elsa, Belle, Ariel, and others brought pure Disney magic to the streets.
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Despite its immense popularity, Paint the Night ended its original run in 2017. The announcement of its return for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary was met with overwhelming excitement. This time around, the parade runs through Fantasyland and down Main Street, U.S.A., returning to the park where it first premiered.
During its earlier run, the parade had switched between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, but fans were thrilled to see it back in its original setting.
For now, Paint the Night lights up Disneyland twice every evening, but that schedule will soon be shifting. Starting October 27, Disneyland will close on weekdays at 10 p.m. instead of 11 p.m. Because of this earlier closing, the parade will only run once each weekday night, with the show scheduled at 8:30 p.m.
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Weekends will keep the familiar format. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, Disneyland Park will continue to remain open until 11 p.m., allowing the parade to be performed at both 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. This schedule will stay in place until November 9, when Paint the Night wraps up its seasonal performances.
Of course, Disneyland’s holiday celebrations are just around the corner. Beginning November 14, A Christmas Fantasy Parade will return, offering festive floats, beloved characters in holiday costumes, and classic Christmas music. Guests will be able to catch the parade twice daily all season long, through January 7.
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Disney has already confirmed that Paint the Night will make its return after the holiday season concludes. While no official date has been given, it is likely that the parade will reappear about a week after January 7, once the holiday offerings come to an end.
Disneyland’s parades have always been a highlight for guests. While changes to the schedule may require some adjustments for visitors, the magic continues both during the fall season and into the holidays. For guests planning their trips in late October and November, checking the adjusted parade times will ensure they don’t miss this sparkling nighttime spectacular.
Is Paint the Night your favorite Disney parade? If not, which one do you love most? Are you looking forward to the return of A Christmas Fantasy Parade during the holiday season? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
