Disneyland Resort’s 70th Anniversary is almost here, kicking off on May 16 and running through the summer of 2026. This milestone marks seven decades since Walt Disney turned his dream into reality and created The Happiest Place on Earth. With each anniversary, Disneyland pulls out all the stops, and this year is no exception.
Expect a whirlwind of new and returning shows, breathtaking decorations, special character appearances in celebratory outfits, limited-time food and drink offerings, and countless other surprises designed to honor Disney’s legendary past.
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Among the many attractions planned for the 70th Anniversary, one offering has caught the attention of park enthusiasts — a unique dining package that pairs a gourmet meal with a reserved viewing of one of Disneyland’s most beloved parades.
The parade in question is the Paint the Night Parade, which first dazzled guests during the 60th Anniversary celebration. Its dazzling floats, vibrant lights, and contagious energy once had thousands of fans lining the streets of Disneyland Park to join in the fun. Although the parade was removed and even relocated at one point, its permanent disappearance in early 2017 left a void that fans have been eager to fill.
Now, as part of the 70th Anniversary festivities, Disneyland is reviving the parade with an extra dose of magic — and an exclusive dining twist.
Starting May 16, guests will have the opportunity to enhance their parade experience by purchasing a special dining package at the historic Plaza Inn.
Here’s how it works: Guests dine at the Plaza Inn daily between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., and upon enjoying a delicious meal, they receive a voucher that secures them a reserved spot for the first showing of the Paint the Night Parade later that evening.
This reserved area is a game changer, ensuring that your parade viewing is hassle-free and that you don’t have to battle the crowds for a prime spot.
The dining package is thoughtfully designed to cater to the entire family, and it comes with a preset menu for both adults and children.
Adult Dining Package Menu
- Mushroom gravy-glazed meatloaf
- Baby wedge salad
- Pea purée over creamy mashed potatoes
- Herbed crispy carrots
- Paint the Night-themed dessert
- Choice of one fountain beverage
Child Dining Package Menu
- Crispy chicken tenders
- Macaroni & Cheese
- Apple sauce and baby carrots
- Dinner roll
- Paint the Night-themed dessert
- Choice of one fountain beverage
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For those who prefer plant-based options, alternative dishes will be available. Additionally, since the Plaza Inn operates as a quick-service restaurant during these hours, there’s no need to worry about tipping.
The pricing for the dining package is set at $55 per adult and $28 per child—a reasonable rate for an experience that combines gourmet dining with exclusive access to one of Disneyland’s most anticipated parades. It’s important to note that while the viewing area doesn’t offer traditional seating, the voucher guarantees a spot in a designated area.
Arriving on time is essential, as latecomers may not be accommodated.
But the dining package is only one piece of the 70th Anniversary puzzle. Disneyland is sparing no effort in making this celebration monumental.
In addition to the Paint the Night Parade, guests can look forward to a host of exciting attractions, including returning favorites and brand-new experiences. For instance, the Wondrous Journeys fireworks spectacular, originally showcased during The Walt Disney Company’s 100th Anniversary, will once again light up the night sky over Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Meanwhile, over at Disney California Adventure, the festive “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” will make its return, and a new World of Color show — World of Color Happiness!, hosted by Joy from Inside Out—is set to dazzle audiences.
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While the 70th Anniversary celebrations will stretch well into the summer of 2026, the exclusive Paint the Night dining package is available for a limited time only — from May 16 through August 21, 2025. This timeframe aligns with Disneyland’s ramp-up for the Halloween season, and if the package proves popular, there’s a possibility it could return even after the holiday season.
For families and Disney enthusiasts planning their visit, this dining package represents a unique way to experience Disneyland’s rich legacy. It’s not just about watching a parade — it’s about savoring a delightful meal at one of the park’s most iconic restaurants, all while ensuring you have a guaranteed spot to witness one of the most vibrant and mesmerizing parades ever created.
What are you most excited about for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary? Is it the exclusive dining experience, the long-awaited return of the Paint the Night Parade, the spectacular fireworks, or perhaps the host of new shows that are on the horizon? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your excitement and let us know how you plan to celebrate this historic milestone in the comments below.
