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Disneyland Adjusts Parade Schedule With Fewer Weekday Performances

There’s something undeniably magical about Disney parades. For decades, these performances have enchanted parkgoers with lights, music, floats, and favorite characters parading down Main Street, U.S.A. Whether it’s the whimsical floats of the Main Street Electrical Parade or the colorful lineup in SpectroMagic, these shows hold a special place in fans’ hearts.

When Disneyland Resort introduced a brand-new nighttime spectacular in 2015 for its Diamond 60th Anniversary Celebration, guests were immediately captivated.

Paint the Night Parade Disneyland
Credit: Disney

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Featuring dazzling floats and the upbeat anthem “When Can We Do This Again” from Wreck-It Ralph (2012), the Paint the Night Parade quickly became a must-see offering. With appearances from characters like Peter Pan, Buzz Lightyear, Lightning McQueen, Anna, Elsa, Belle, and Ariel, the parade created unforgettable moments that fans longed to see again and again.

Although its popularity was undeniable, Paint the Night came to an end in 2017. So, when Disneyland announced its return for the resort’s 70th Anniversary, excitement spread quickly. The parade initially debuted at Disneyland Park before moving to Disney California Adventure during its first run, but this time it returned to its roots, making its way through Fantasyland and Main Street, U.S.A.

Paint the Night Disneyland
Credit: D23

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Currently, Paint the Night is shown twice per night, giving guests more than one chance to catch the sparkling spectacle. However, that will soon change. Beginning October 27, Disneyland will adjust its weekday closing time to 10 p.m., one hour earlier than its current 11 p.m. schedule. As a result, the Paint the Night Parade will only run once each weekday, with the performance scheduled for 8:30 p.m.

On weekends, though, the schedule remains familiar. Friday through Sunday, when Disneyland Park continues to stay open until 11 p.m., the parade will still take place twice nightly, at 8:30 p.m. and again at 10:30 p.m. This weekday adjustment is expected to stay in place through November 9, when Paint the Night concludes its seasonal run.

The end of Paint the Night in early November will transition the park into its festive holiday season.

Experience the enchanting Disneyland Parades with a colorful procession of illuminated floats featuring beloved characters, including a large glowing dog and cowboy figure, all set against a brilliantly lit castle at night. Crowds gather along the streets to witness this vibrant spectacle.
Credit: Disney

Related: Fans React to Sudden Firings of Paint the Night Dancers Days Before Parade Returns

Beginning November 14, Disneyland will debut its beloved A Christmas Fantasy Parade, which runs twice daily throughout the season. That parade will continue until January 7, keeping Main Street, U.S.A. full of holiday cheer.

Disney has reassured guests that Paint the Night is not gone for good. The parade is expected to return after the conclusion of the holiday season, although an exact date has not yet been confirmed. Based on past scheduling, fans can anticipate it will reappear about a week after January 7, once holiday offerings have wrapped up.

Is Paint the Night your favorite Disney parade? If not, which Disney parade holds the most special place in your heart? Are you looking forward to seeing the return of A Christmas Fantasy Parade this holiday season? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

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