Disneyland ResortNews

70th Anniversary Preparations Lead to Closures of Disneyland Attractions

Disneyland’s Upcoming Anniversary Celebration

Disneyland is gearing up for a significant milestone as it prepares to celebrate its anniversary, a vital occasion set to commence on May 16, 2025. The celebration will last until September 26, 2025, featuring various exciting events to commemorate the park’s rich history.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse, dressed in colorful, festive outfits, stand joyfully in front of a castle adorned with "70" banners at this Disney Park.
Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Guests can look forward to special nighttime shows, unique character experiences, and photo opportunities to enhance their visit to the iconic theme park. The build-up to this grand celebration has generated a buzz among Disneyland fans, eager to partake in the festivities.

List of Closed Attractions

As part of the preparations for the 70th Anniversary, Disneyland has announced that 14 attractions will be temporarily closed for refurbishment. Initially, 11 rides were slated for downtime, but this figure has since increased. Notable attractions affected by the closures include the beloved Matterhorn Bobsleds and the popular Soarin’ Around the World.

A vibrant nighttime display at Disneyland's 70th anniversary reveals a large, colorful building adorned with numerous bright lights and intricate designs. The landscape features illuminated topiary shapes against a clear, dark blue sky, creating an enchanting celebration of magical memories.
Credit: Disney

While some rides are scheduled to return before the anniversary kicks off, others remain without announced reopening dates, causing some uncertainty for visitors planning their trips around this time.

The complete list of closed attractions includes:

  • It’s a Small World
  • Matterhorn Bobsleds

  • Soarin’ Around the World

  • Enchanted Tiki Room

  • Dumbo the Flying Elephant

  • Mad Tea Party

  • King Arthur Carrousel

  • Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Gadget Coaster

  • Sorcerer’s Workshop

  • Anna & Elsa’s Royal Welcome

  • Fantasmic

  • Indiana Jones Adventure

  • Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln

  • Pixie Hollow

This extensive list illustrates the breadth of rides undergoing refurbishment, underscoring Disneyland’s commitment to maintaining high-quality attractions for its guests.

Walt Disney in a suit sits on a desk in front of a backdrop of maps and drawings, resembling an office setting. Behind them, a window shows a scenic view. The stage area is surrounded by an audience.
Credit: Disney

Popular Attractions Affected

Closing several beloved attractions presents challenges for guests hoping to experience everything the park offers in time for the celebrations. With major rides going offline, visitors must now navigate their plans carefully. Some standout attractions will not reopen for the anniversary festivities, including Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, which is expected to remain closed until fall 2026.

A black and white image of an animatronic figure resembling Abraham Lincoln, seated in the Hall of Presidents, with a book on a table and an American flag in the background.
Credit: D23

While It’s a Small World initially planned to reintroduce a Coco overlay by late April, further delays pushed its reopening to May 9, close to the start of the anniversary. Additionally, the Matterhorn Bobsleds will close on April 28 without a set date for when it may welcome guests again. The uncertainty surrounding the timeliness of these closures can affect overall guest satisfaction during the anniversary period.

Guests Preparing for Changes

As closures loom, potential visitors must check ride availability before they plan their trips. Disneyland management encourages guests to stay informed about which attractions will be operational during the anniversary celebrations. The recommendations include timing visits to either land before May 16 or afterward, allowing for a full experience of what the park has to offer without disappointment.

matterhorn disneyland
Credit: Disney

The impacts of these temporary closings not only affect day-to-day enjoyment at Disneyland but set the stage for future visits, ensuring that guests will eventually experience the refreshed attractions. For those planning to visit during this celebratory period, up-to-date information on ride closures and reopening statuses will play a vital role in enhancing their experience at the theme park.

Disneyland’s extensive refurbishment efforts in anticipation of its anniversary reflect the park’s dedication to providing an extraordinary experience for its guests while maintaining the quality of its attractions. Nonetheless, it is wise for visitors to remain aware of changes and prepare accordingly for the upcoming festivities.

Rick Lye

Rick is an avid Disney fan. He first went to Disney World in 1986 with his parents and has been hooked ever since. Rick is married to another Disney fan and is in the process of turning his two children into fans as well. When he is not creating new Disney adventures, he loves to watch the New York Yankees and hang out with his dog, Buster. In the fall, you will catch him cheering for his beloved NY Giants.

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