Seventy years ago, Walt Disney opened the gates to a place unlike any other—Disneyland. Now, in 2025, the Anaheim resort is celebrating that extraordinary legacy with a resort-wide celebration that honors the past and embraces the future. Officially launched on May 16, 2025, the festivities span both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, bringing back cherished favorites and dazzling guests with new surprises.
On July 17, the original Disneyland Park, affectionately known by many as a “locals” park due to its Southern California roots, officially marked its 70th anniversary. What began in 1955 as a single park has evolved into a multi-day resort experience, complete with themed hotels, immersive dining, and destination shopping. Disney California Adventure joined the magic in 2001, expanding the Disneyland Resort into a getaway full of wonder and storytelling.
Guests visiting this summer can enjoy the return of beloved nighttime entertainment like Paint the Night and Wondrous Journeys, illuminating Main Street, U.S.A. and Sleeping Beauty Castle. A brand-new presentation, Walt Disney—A Magical Life, has also debuted, celebrating the man behind the dream. Meanwhile, over at Disney California Adventure, the celebration continues with Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! and the all-new World of Color—Happiness! nighttime spectacular.
“This anniversary is more than a milestone – it’s a chance to reflect on Walt’s original dream and how far it’s come,” said Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro in an interview with Disney Parks Blog. “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.”
Bob Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, also touched on the expectations that come with Disney magic: “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.”
The celebration isn’t just about shows and parades—Disney is also giving back to the local community. A new resident ticket deal invites Anaheim locals to visit the parks for just $70 per one-day, one-park ticket between August 4 and September 25, 2025. According to Kenny the Pirate, these tickets must be purchased by calling (844) 695-1240 and are not available at the gates. The offer is limited to Anaheim residents with zip codes ranging from 92801–92809, 92812, 92814–92817, 92825, 92850, and 92899. Up to eight tickets may be purchased per day by eligible guests over the age of 18.
In the spirit of refining guest experiences, Disneyland Resort has also made temporary updates to its Early Entry schedule. Usually, Early Entry alternates between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure depending on the day. However, on July 17, Disneyland did not offer Early Entry, instead opening its gates to all guests at 8 a.m. To make up for it, both parks allowed Early Entry access the day prior, on Wednesday, July 16.
As always, guests staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel can enjoy 30-minute early access to select attractions, dining, and shops each day of their stay—just be sure to have valid admission and a park reservation.
While Disneyland celebrates seven decades of storytelling, Walt Disney World in Florida—now well past its 50th anniversary—continues to evolve as well. The company is adjusting offerings and planning new experiences coast to coast, all with an eye on the future.
What part of the Disneyland70 celebration has captured your heart? Let us know your favorite moment!
