As The Walt Disney Company continues to honor its legacy of magic and imagination, Disneyland Resort is gearing up for an extraordinary milestone: its 70th Anniversary. Beginning May 16, 2025, the park that started it all will invite guests to “Celebrate Happy” with a wide array of new and returning experiences.
From parades and themed food offerings to limited-edition merchandise, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. But the spotlight this time shines on two brand-new projection shows, promising to bring even more wonder to The Happiest Place on Earth.
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A Magical Milestone
Disneyland opened its gates in 1955, and for seven decades, it has captured the hearts of visitors worldwide. The “Celebrate Happy” theme encapsulates Disneyland’s enduring commitment to spreading joy and creating unforgettable memories. For this special anniversary, Disney plans to elevate the guest experience with two projection shows that will immerse audiences in a symphony of light, music, and storytelling.
The first show will debut at Disneyland Park, using the iconic façade of “it’s a small world” as its canvas. This beloved attraction has already dazzled guests as an alternative viewing location for nighttime spectaculars like “Disneyland Forever” and the Encanto (2021)-themed projection displays.
Over at Disney California Adventure, the second show will take center stage on the front of the Carthay Circle Restaurant. While this historic spot has hosted projection displays during events like Oogie Boogie Bash, it has never before held the starring role. This new projection show will make Carthay Circle a focal point for evening entertainment, blending themed lighting and music to create a magical nighttime moment.
More Than Just Projection Shows
The two projection shows are just the beginning of what’s in store for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary. Disney fans will also rejoice at the return of several beloved entertainment offerings.
The iconic Paint the Night Parade, a fan-favorite introduced during Disneyland’s 60th Anniversary celebration, will once again light up Main Street, U.S.A. With its dazzling floats and synchronized music, this parade remains one of the most visually stunning experiences Disney has ever created.
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Pixar fans, too, have something to celebrate. The popular Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! parade will return to Disney California Adventure. This parade features rarely seen characters, including Luca and Alberto from Luca (2021) and members of 4*Town from Turning Red (2022).
Guests can also look forward to “Wondrous Journeys,” a breathtaking fireworks spectacular that debuted during Disney’s 100th Anniversary celebration in 2023. This moving show, set against the backdrop of Sleeping Beauty Castle, will once again remind audiences of Disney’s storytelling magic.
Disney California Adventure will also unveil a brand-new World of Color show titled World of Color Happiness!. Hosted by Joy from Inside Out, this water, light, and music spectacular will honor seven decades of Disneyland history. The show will feature music from iconic Disney films such as Tangled (2010), A Goofy Movie (1995), The Lion King (1994), and Turning Red.
With its signature fountains, colorful lasers, fog effects, and dramatic flames, this show is poised to be a visual and emotional feast for audiences.
In true Disney fashion, Imagineers are blending innovation with nostalgia to honor the park’s legacy. As part of the celebration, Disney announced a first-of-its-kind animatronic of Walt Disney himself.
This animatronic will debut in “Walt Disney: A Magical Life,” a new attraction alternating with “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.” Guests will get to see Walt’s story brought to life in a way that highlights his visionary spirit and contributions to the world of entertainment.
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary is shaping up to be one of the most unforgettable celebrations in the park’s history. From dazzling parades and projection shows to immersive new attractions, the resort is pulling out all the stops to ensure that every guest can share in the joy.
Mark your calendars for May 16, 2025, and prepare to experience the magic of Disneyland’s “Celebrate Happy” festivities. With so much to see and do, this milestone celebration promises to enchant Disney fans of all ages.
Will you be heading to Disneyland Resort to celebrate its 70th Anniversary? What experiences are you most looking forward to? Let us know in the comments!
