Disneyland will mark its 70th anniversary beginning May 16, 2025, with a series of special events and attractions at its Anaheim location. Since opening in 1955 with about 30 rides and attractions, the park has expanded to include two parks, three hotels, and the Downtown Disney District.
The celebration will feature special decor, limited-time merchandise and food options, as well as an official song titled “Celebrate Happy,” performed by the Jonas Brothers. This song will be featured throughout the park during the festivities and serve as the soundtrack for the new Celebrate Happy Cavalcade parade. The parade includes Mickey Mouse, his friends, princesses, superheroes, and Duffy the bear.
Entertainment offerings during the anniversary period include returning shows such as Wondrous Journeys and Paint the Night Parade—with its “Frozen Fractals” float making a return—as well as new performances like Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Disney California Adventure Park. The World of Color Happiness nighttime show will feature a rendition of “Rainbow Connection” by Boyz II Men.
Some attractions are being updated for the occasion. At It’s a Small World in Disneyland Park, Tapestry of Happiness light shows inspired by artist Mary Blair’s work will be projected on the ride’s exterior after dark. Inside, visitors can spot new characters Miguel and Dante from Coco. Toy Story Midway Mania at California Adventure Park will have 70th-anniversary-inspired targets.
On July 17—the actual anniversary—Walt Disney—A Magical Life debuts at Main Street Opera House. This presentation features an audio-animatronic Walt Disney sharing his biography and discussing how his Midwest background influenced Main Street USA. According to Disneyland officials: “Once Walt Disney—A Magical Life finishes its initial run, showings of it will alternate with Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.”
After attending either show at the Opera House auditorium, guests can view exhibits that include a scale model of Disneyland Park from 1955 along with photos and artifacts related to Walt Disney’s life.
At Main Street Cinema starting July 17, a film about the Sherman brothers—songwriters behind many classic Disney tunes including “It’s a Small World”—will be shown and include a rarely heard verse of that song.
Guests using MagicBand+ wristbands can experience new effects during their visit to spots like Main Street Cinema or Fantasyland Window next to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. These wristbands also offer conveniences such as ticket storage and Lightning Lane access for faster entry on rides.
Nostalgia is reflected in limited-time merchandise ranging from retro-style sweatshirts featuring vintage park maps to Bulova pocket watches inspired by Walt Disney’s fashion sense. A special collectible called Key to Disneyland allows guests to unlock visual effects or win limited-edition trading pins across nine themed lands in Disneyland Park.
Over 70 new food items are being introduced across restaurants in both parks, hotels, and Downtown Disney District. Menu highlights include beef stroganoff, tuna melts, churros with special toppings, chocolate-dipped cookies shaped like Mickey ear hats, pineapple upside down cake sundaes with Dole Whip, banana splits reminiscent of those served in the 1950s era of Disneyland—and drinks such as a whiskey-based 70th Celebration Cocktail or Karl Strauss Brewing Company’s commemorative IPA.
Dining packages and dessert parties are available for purchase; these offer reserved seating at evening parades or shows starting at $28 per child or $55 per adult.
Special multi-day ticket deals start at $100 per day through much of spring and summer; hotel guests can save up to 20 percent off rates at Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Disneyland Hotel, or Villas if they book by July 15 for stays through August 15.
