Fans Speak Out After Disneyland Builds New Version of Walt’s Original Castle
Disneyland Resort is preparing to unveil a new tribute to one of its most iconic landmarks: Sleeping Beauty Castle. As part of Disneyland’s 70th anniversary celebrations, Disneyland Resort has built a stunning new version of Walt Disney’s original castle—but don’t worry, the beloved original is staying right where it is. This new addition is a striking 50-foot sculpture that will soon stand proudly in the esplanade between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
A Fresh Take on Sleeping Beauty Castle
As the 70th anniversary of Disneyland Resort rapidly approaches, anticipation for the new Sleeping Beauty Castle sculpture is reaching a fever pitch. The artwork will feature intricate glass details and golden accents, offering a fresh and celebratory take on the castle that has stood at the heart of Disneyland since 1955. This new photo op spot will be an essential part of any Disneyland70 vacation for fans eager to snap a picture in front of a stunning new version of Walt’s original creation.
Disney Parks fans have been eagerly tracking the progress of the castle sculpture, with Reddit user u/TheDisneyScoopGuy posting photos showing the structure nearing completion:
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
“Gorgeous, perfect, I love it,” u/anniemated commented.
“It’s looks so pretty!!” u/One-Hat-9887 replied.
Disneyland70: What to Expect from the Anniversary Celebrations
The Sleeping Beauty Castle sculpture is just one of many exciting offerings fans can look forward to during Disneyland Resort’s 70th anniversary celebrations. Although Disneyland Park’s official birthday isn’t until July 15, 2025, most of the anniversary celebrations will begin earlier on May 16, 2025.
Disneyland Park will undergo a transformation with vibrant new decorations and updated attractions, such as “it’s a small world,” which will introduce new Coco (2017) dolls, a final verse from the Sherman Brothers, and an all-new nighttime projection show, “Tapestry of Happiness.” Also returning are the “Wondrous Journeys” fireworks and the fan-favorite “Paint the Night” electrical parade.
Over at Disney California Adventure Park, the interactive “World of Color Happiness!” nighttime show will debut, 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, bringing a touch of Pixar magic during the day.
There’s even more to celebrate on Disneyland Park’s official birthday, July 15, 2025, when the “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” show debuts at the Main Street Opera House. This special show will feature the first-ever audio-animatronic of Walt Disney himself, along with a display of rare items from the Walt Disney Archives. It will temporarily replace “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” and alternate performances with it after the initial run.
Disneyland70 celebrations will continue through the summer of 2026, giving guests plenty of time to experience the magic and enjoy the many exciting updates coming to the Southern California Disney parks.
Have you noticed any other construction around Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park? In the comments, share your experience with Disney Dining.
