
As the excitement builds for the upcoming Sweethearts’ Nite at Disneyland Resort, many attendees experience disappointment. This popular event, part of the Disneyland After Dark series, is renowned for its romantic atmosphere and special experiences designed for couples and Disney enthusiasts alike. However, guests expecting unique character meet-and-greets this year are finding themselves disenchanted with the character lineup announced so far.
Related: No More Tickets: Disneyland After Dark’s Sweethearts’ Nite Now Fully Booked
Character Appearances Often Drive Attendance
One of the primary draws of Sweethearts’ Nite is the opportunity for attendees to meet and interact with a variety of Disney characters, many of whom are not typically featured in the parks. The ability to take photos and receive autographs from these beloved figures enhances the magical experience that Disneyland is famous for. While the essence of Sweethearts Nite is undeniably enchanting, the character appearances often incentivize guests to purchase tickets and attend the evening festivities.
This year, however, the lineup of confirmed characters has sparked dissatisfaction among fans. The initial list features a small list of characters, leading many to feel that it fails to capture the diversity and excitement of previous events. A number of fans have taken to social media, expressing their underwhelmed reactions.
The collective sentiment among disappointed guests underscores the expectation that each Sweethearts Nite event should deliver a unique and unforgettable experience. One guest shared:
Sweetheart’s nite 2025 character list
Discussion
The list sucks… not many characters listed like last year’s. Hoping that this is only a teaser and that there will be more characters out than the ones listed
Sweetheart’s nite 2025 character list
byu/Large_Reaction_1050 inDisneyland
Overview of 2025 Character Lineup
Among the confirmed characters for the Sweethearts’ Nite at Disneyland Resort are Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Donald and Daisy Duck, and iconic figures like Indiana Jones and Marion Ravenwood. Other characters included are Louis from The Princess and the Frog and Constance Hathaway from The Haunted Mansion. While this selection does include some fan favorites, the overall roster has been criticized for lacking diversity and excitement.
The disappointment is particularly pronounced when comparing this year’s announced lineup to the extensive character lists from past Sweethearts’ Nite events. Guests who have attended in previous years reminisce about the larger selection of characters, which included rare appearances from iconic couples like Cinderella and Prince Charming or Aladdin and Jasmine. This year’s selection is viewed as a step back, leaving long-time fans questioning the changes in the park’s approach to character experiences.
When juxtaposing this year’s character list with those from previous Sweethearts Nite’ events, it becomes apparent that a trend of reducing character appearances is forming. Historically, Sweethearts Nite featured extensive rosters filled with both classic favorites and lesser-known characters, creating an environment ripe for surprise and delight. Many attendees have come to expect a more robust selection, making the current offerings feel lackluster in comparison.
Surprises from Previous Events
Previous Sweethearts’ Nites frequently included unexpected character appearances that left guests in awe. Characters from various Disney franchises, including film couples and classic animated figures, would often show up to create memorable moments. Such surprises were a staple of the event and added a unique charm that contributed to its reputation as a must-attend gathering for Disney fans. The current anticipation for surprises has been clouded by the announced lineup’s limitations.
The balance of returning favorites with the introduction of new character pairings has historically provided guests with a broad spectrum of interactions. This year’s lineup includes a few beloved characters but significantly lacks the mixed flavors of new faces that many attendees hope for. The diminishing availability of unique character experiences raises questions about the future of events like Sweethearts’ Nite, leaving fans concerned that the magic they have come to expect may transform into something more ordinary.