Another day, another Disney controversy. As the company revealed ticket details for its 2025 Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite event, what began as a routine update quickly ignited heated debates across social media, adding fuel to an already simmering culture clash over Disney’s evolving identity.
The event, part of Disneyland’s popular After Dark series, is set to return in 2025, with ticket sales launching next week. Magic Key Holders will have first access on April 16, followed by the general public on April 17. According to Disney, the virtual queue for tickets will open “no earlier than 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time” on both days.
Ticket Announcement Brings Backlash
Intended as a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, Pride Nite transforms the park into a rainbow-lit party with live music, themed treats, character meet-and-greets, and exclusive merchandise. However, while many see it as an inclusive and joyful addition to the Disneyland calendar, others accuse Disney of prioritizing politics over family-friendly entertainment.
Almost immediately after the announcement, backlash surfaced online from critics claiming the event amounts to “indoctrination” of young children. One post on X bluntly declared:
“Disney just announced their ‘Pride Nite’ events for toddlers to celebrate LGBTQ pride. I guess they aren’t satisfied with their multiple box office FLOPS and would like to see more FAILS. Will they ever learn.”
Another user took aim at both the price point and the event’s message, writing:
“Ah yes, nothing says ‘magic’ like a $169 ticket to indoctrinate toddlers before nap time. Disney used to sell dreams—now it sells identity politics in mouse ears. Keep going, guys. At this rate, bankruptcy will be gender-neutral too.”
These comments reflect a broader critique that has trailed Disney in recent years, as the company leans further into messaging around inclusion and diversity. Supporters of these efforts praise Disney for embracing progress and reflecting a wider range of experiences in its parks and films. Detractors, however, argue that the company risks alienating segments of its traditional audience.
Ah yes, nothing says “magic” like a $169 ticket to indoctrinate toddlers before nap time. Disney used to sell dreams—now it sells identity politics in mouse ears. Keep going, guys. At this rate, bankruptcy will be gender-neutral too.
— The Undercurrent (@NotTheirScript) April 11, 2025
Pride Nite Fans Continue to Show Up
Despite the vocal opposition, Pride Nite has historically proven to be a commercial success, with previous years selling out quickly. For many guests, the event is a meaningful celebration of visibility and community in a space renowned for creating lifelong memories.
So far, Disney has not publicly addressed the negative commentary, focusing instead on preparations for the event itself. Judging by past turnout, demand is expected to be strong when tickets go live next week.
The situation underscores Disney’s ongoing balancing act between championing inclusion and navigating public opinion. Whether the backlash will have any lasting impact remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: in today’s cultural climate, even a night of rainbow-colored lights and dance parties can spark national debate.
This is horrendous. Disney is supposed to be a kids park and now they are trying to make grow to too fast and indoctrinate their tiny little minds that don’t know about this stuff yet. Disney you just keep getting worse and worse
It’s gone from it’s a small world to fruitcakeville. I will never go to Disney again nor take my kids ever. Go woke and go broke.