With its original gates first opening on July 17, 1955, Disneyland Park in Anaheim recently turned 70, and the celebrations are well underway across Disneyland Resort.
The anniversary season officially launched on May 16, 2025, welcoming guests to explore both classic favorites and new offerings across Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. Among the highlights is the return of Paint the Night, a nighttime parade dazzling Main Street, U.S.A., and Wondrous Journeys, a spectacular show illuminating the skies above Sleeping Beauty Castle. Guests can also enjoy Walt Disney—A Magical Life, a stage show honoring Walt’s legacy and vision.
Across the esplanade, Disney California Adventure joins in with two brand-new offerings. The daytime celebration Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! invites guests to dance and cheer alongside Pixar characters, while nighttime brings World of Color—Happiness!, transforming Paradise Bay with light, water, and music.
The 70th celebration isn’t just about shows—it’s also bringing exclusive offers and updates. For Anaheim locals, a special ticket deal is available from August 4 through September 25. Residents living in eligible ZIP codes—92801 through 92809, 92812, 92814 through 92817, 92825, 92850, and 92899—can purchase $70 one-day, one-park tickets by calling (844) 695-1240. These tickets must be ordered by phone and are limited to eight per day per caller, age 18 and up.
Magic Key holders, too, have new perks to explore. From August 13 through August 18, Disneyland is offering half-off pricing on the Lightning Lane Multi Pass, which allows guests to reserve access to attractions ahead of time. Multi Pass pricing begins at $32, depending on date, so this promotion offers notable value for frequent visitors.
Magic Key, the resort’s tiered passholder program, remains popular, offering access to both parks with advance reservations. The four tiers—Inspire, Believe, Enchant, and Imagine—include varying benefits such as merchandise and dining discounts, parking options, and Lightning Lane privileges. Top-tier passes like Inspire provide the fewest blackout dates, though entry is never guaranteed without a reservation.
Despite its popularity, new sales of Magic Keys have been paused as of August 2025. Guests who currently hold passes may still renew, but the resort has not announced when or if new sales will resume. The previous purchase window closed on July 31. Those interested in future opportunities can sign up for updates on the official Magic Key page.
The pause is believed to be part of ongoing efforts to manage crowd levels and balance attendance between local residents and visiting guests. For those considering the program in the future, the pass value varies based on usage, with higher tiers like Inspire breaking even around 11 visits per year.
As the 70th anniversary continues, Disney leadership has reflected on the meaning behind the milestone. Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, shared: “This anniversary is more than a milestone—it’s a chance to reflect on Walt’s original dream and how far it’s come. What started as one park has grown into destinations around the world, all built on his belief that Disney could create incredible worlds like no one else.”
CEO Bob Iger offered insight into the expectations the Disney name carries: “I’ve often said that one of the greatest attributes of Disney is the mere fact that people expect so much from us. We welcome that challenge, because it motivates us and energizes us to always be bold in everything that we do, and to exceed our guests’ highest expectations.”
While Disneyland marks this historic occasion, the larger Disney parks experience continues to evolve, with developments at Walt Disney World and international resorts shaping the future of the brand.
As the summer unfolds, the 70th anniversary stands as both a celebration of the past and an invitation to discover what’s next. Whether it’s returning for beloved shows, experiencing something new, or taking advantage of seasonal offers, there’s never been a more memorable time to visit Disneyland Resort.
