Disney has been an integral part of countless lives for so long that it’s hard to imagine a world without Mickey Mouse, Disney theme parks, or iconic Disney movies. In 2023, The Walt Disney Company marked its monumental 100th Anniversary with celebrations spanning Disney parks worldwide.
Next year brings yet another momentous occasion — the Disneyland Resort will commemorate its 70th Anniversary! That’s right — it’s been 70 magical years since Walt Disney first opened the gates and welcomed guests to “the happiest place on Earth.”
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Disney is known for celebrating milestones in grand style, and Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary will be no different. Starting May 16, 2025, guests can look forward to a host of exciting experiences. Fan-favorite parades will return, classic characters will dress in their festive finest, and there will be limited-time food and drink offerings, themed merchandise, and much more!
In addition, Disneyland will debut not one but two brand-new projection shows, including one in a location that has never taken the spotlight before.
The celebration will revolve around the theme “Celebrate Happy,” and both projection shows will fully embrace this joyous sentiment.
Two New Projection Shows to Light Up the Night
The first projection show will debut at Disneyland Park, transforming the façade of “it’s a small world” into a vibrant canvas of light and storytelling. This iconic attraction has previously served as a backdrop for displays like “Disneyland Forever” and an Encanto (2021)-themed show, but the new 70th Anniversary display will celebrate Disneyland’s storied legacy with an all-new visual experience.
Over at Disney California Adventure, Carthay Circle Restaurant will take center stage for the second projection show. While this elegant spot has been used for limited projection effects during events like Oogie Boogie Bash, it has never hosted a full-scale show of its own. The new display will elevate Carthay Circle to the forefront of evening entertainment, offering a unique and immersive experience for park visitors.
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A Celebration of Nostalgia and Innovation
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary is more than just new projection shows. The resort is bringing back fan-favorite entertainment offerings to ensure that every guest feels the magic. The iconic Paint the Night Parade, which dazzled audiences during Disneyland’s 60th Diamond Celebration, will return to Main Street, U.S.A.
Pixar fans will also have a reason to celebrate as the Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! Parade returns to Disney California Adventure. Featuring rarely seen characters like Luca and Alberto from Luca (2021) and members of 4*Town from Turning Red (2022), this vibrant parade celebrates the friendships and stories that Pixar is known for.
Additionally, the fireworks spectacular “Wondrous Journeys,” which premiered during Disney’s 100th Anniversary celebration in 2023, will make its triumphant return. Set against the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, this awe-inspiring show highlights Disney’s legacy of storytelling through breathtaking visuals and music.
Disney California Adventure will also introduce a brand-new World of Color show titled World of Color Happiness! Hosted by Joy from Inside Out (2015), this water, light, and music spectacular will honor seven decades of Disneyland history. Featuring music from Tangled (2010), The Lion King (1994), Turning Red, and more, the show combines stunning water projections, colorful lasers, and dramatic flame effects to create a sensory experience unlike any other.
In a particularly innovative move, Disney Imagineers are creating a first-of-its-kind animatronic of Walt Disney himself. The animatronic will debut in a new attraction titled “Walt Disney: A Magical Life,” which will alternate with “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.” This groundbreaking addition will allow guests to connect with Walt’s vision and contributions to the world of entertainment in a deeply personal way.
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary kicks off on May 16, 2025, promising a celebration that honors the park’s past while looking toward its future. Whether it’s the dazzling projection shows, the return of beloved parades, or the chance to experience groundbreaking new attractions, there will be no shortage of reasons to visit the happiest place on Earth. Start planning your trip now to be part of this historic celebration!
Will you be heading to Disneyland Resort to celebrate its 70th Anniversary? What experiences are you most looking forward to? Let us know in the comments!
