After almost 70 years of enchanting guests, Disneyland Resort is about to unveil something truly special—an all-new version of Sleeping Beauty Castle. But don’t worry, Walt Disney’s original castle isn’t going anywhere. Instead, this new addition is a tribute to the iconic landmark, celebrating its legacy in a unique way for Disneyland Resort’s 70th anniversary celebrations.
A Castle Like No Other
Disneyland Resort’s 70th anniversary celebrations will officially kick off on May 16, 2025, just a few months before the park’s birthday on July 15. While the festivities are already stacking up with exciting new offerings, one of the most anticipated reveals is the new Sleeping Beauty Castle sculpture, which will stand proudly in the esplanade between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. This massive 50-foot sculpture features intricate glasswork and golden details, making it the perfect photo opportunity for Disney Park guests during the anniversary celebrations.
Crews are nearly finished constructing the sculpture, and Disney Parks fans have been eagerly watching its progress. Redditor u/TheDisneyScoopGuy recently shared photos showing the sculpture nearing completion, with spires now visible above the construction walls.
The Disneyland 70th anniversary esplanade photo op got spires overnight! This castle is going to look so cool once it’s finished!
The Disneyland 70th anniversary esplanade photo op got spires overnight! This castle is going to look so cool once it’s finished!
byu/TheDisneyScoopGuy inDisneyland
What’s Happening for Disneyland70?
In addition to the new Sleeping Beauty Castle sculpture, Disneyland Resort’s 70th anniversary will feature exciting updates and celebrations across both parks. Disneyland Park will see updated attractions, returning shows, and colorful decorations throughout the park, including the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle itself.
“it’s a small world” will introduce new Pixar’s Coco (2017) dolls, a final verse written by the Sherman Brothers, and a spectacular new nighttime projection show, “Tapestry of Happiness.” The new “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade” will welcome Duffy and ShellieMay to the Southern California Disney park. And, of course, the beloved “Wondrous Journeys” fireworks and “Paint the Night” electrical parade will return to light up the night.
Disney California Adventure Park isn’t missing out on the celebrations either. Guests can expect a brand new interactive “World of Color Happiness!” show, along with a 70th anniversary-themed update to the Toy Story Midway Mania! attraction. The “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” parade will also return.
Beyond Sleeping Beauty Castle – Surprises Await!
While the Sleeping Beauty Castle sculpture is one of the standout features of Disneyland Resort’s anniversary, there’s more to look forward to. On Disneyland’s actual birthday, July 15, 2025, Disney will debut “Walt Disney – A Magical Life,” a special new show that temporarily replaces Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln at the Main Street Opera House. The show will feature the first-ever audio-animatronic figure of Walt Disney and showcase several items from the Walt Disney Archives.
The other Disneyland70 offerings debut on May 16 and will continue through summer 2026.
What do you think of the Sleeping Beauty Castle sculpture so far? Disney Fanatic would love to hear from you in the comments!
