Celebrate Happy: Your Guide to Disneyland Resort’s 70th Anniversary Celebration
There’s always something special about stepping through the gates of Disneyland. But this time, it’s extra magical. The Disneyland Resort is celebrating 70 years of happiness, and you’re invited to be part of the story.
From dazzling décor and fan-favorite parades to new shows, nostalgic bites, and a theme song you’ll find yourself humming all the way home, the 70th Anniversary Celebration is one for the memory books. Whether you're visiting with grandkids, reconnecting with your grown children, or simply returning to a place you’ve loved for decades—there’s never been a better time to Celebrate Happy.
A Resort-Wide Transformation
The celebration touches every corner of the resort, beginning with vibrant anniversary décor that greets you the moment you arrive. A new 50-foot sculpture in the Esplanade, shimmering banners, and golden charms representing the five original lands set the tone. Inside Disneyland, Floral Mickey gets a colorful refresh, and Sleeping Beauty Castle shines with an elegant anniversary medallion.
Even the Downtown Disney District and Disneyland Resort Hotels are dressed for the party. And over at Carthay Circle in Disney California Adventure, the evening brings a musical, light-filled moment set to the new theme song—“Celebrate Happy”—performed by none other than the Jonas Brothers!
World of Color – ONE gets a joyful new twist:
“World of Color – Happiness!” is a dazzling new nighttime spectacular in California Adventure, hosted by Joy and her fellow Emotions from Inside Out and Inside Out 2. This radiant show blends storytelling, water effects, lasers, fire, and music from beloved films like Turning Red, Encanto, A Goofy Movie, and Tangled. You’ll even hear Boyz II Men’s soulful take on “Rainbow Connection” and a brand-new song by Fitz of Fitz and the Tantrums.
✨ Don’t miss the pre-show with The Muppets and a fun in-app interactive moment that lets you vote for your favorite Emotion!
Back on Main Street:
Over in Disneyland, the beloved “Paint the Night” parade lights up the streets once more. With over a million LED lights, this fan-favorite features floats inspired by Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., The Little Mermaid, and more. This time, Anna and Elsa are back too—making it a must-see for Frozen fans.
You’ll also want to stick around for the return of “Wondrous Journeys,” an emotional tribute to Walt Disney Animation Studios with projection mapping, fireworks (on select nights), and music that celebrates everything from Peter Pan to Moana and Big Hero 6.
Parades, Cavalcades & More Joy-Filled Moments
The party doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Over in California Adventure, “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” brings daytime fun with characters from Luca, Up, Turning Red, and more.
Back in Disneyland, don’t miss the “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade”—a short but spirited processional where Mickey and pals (wearing their bright new anniversary outfits!) invite you to clap and dance along. Keep your eyes out for rare character appearances too—Duffy and ShellieMay have been spotted!
And each evening, the façade of “it’s a small world” becomes a whimsical canvas for “Tapestry of Happiness”—a projection show celebrating Disneyland’s legacy with nods to attractions and music we all know and love.
Magical Extras Throughout the Parks
This isn’t just about big shows and fireworks. The celebration is layered with special moments to discover all around the resort:
New touches on attractions like Miguel and Dante in “it’s a small world” and playful 70th nods on Toy Story Midway Mania.
New PhotoPass Magic Shots and lenses (including a charming Mickey & Minnie Magic Shot near Sleeping Beauty Castle).
MagicBand+ surprises across the parks, including interactive effects synced with nighttime shows.
“A Story of Celebration” Guided Tour – A must for Disney history fans, this two-hour walking tour shares stories from opening day to today.
Accessibility Tip: Plan Ahead with the Updated Disability Access Service (DAS)
If someone in your travel group has a developmental disability that makes it difficult to wait in traditional queues, Disneyland Resort offers the Disability Access Service (DAS) to help make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.
The process has recently been updated, so here’s what you need to know:
Register in Advance (Recommended):
You can pre-register for DAS via a live video chat with a Cast Member up to 60 days before your visit. During this chat, they’ll walk you through eligibility and set everything up so you’re ready to go as soon as you arrive at the park.In-Park Registration:
If you didn’t register in advance, stop by an Accessibility Services Kiosk in either park (you’ll find one in the Esplanade, near the main entrances). A Cast Member will assist with on-site registration.Who’s Included:
The DAS can be linked to up to four guests total (the registered guest + three others), and it’s valid for the length of your ticket or up to one year, whichever is shorter.Using DAS in the Parks:
Once inside the park, you can use the Disneyland app to schedule one return time at a time for select attractions—think of it like a virtual queue. As soon as you enjoy your reserved attraction, you can schedule your next return time (usually within 10 minutes). Kiosks are also available to assist if you prefer in-person help.
Bonus tip:
Be sure to pick up an accessible park map or ask for information about wheelchair-friendly paths, companion restrooms, and designated viewing areas for shows and parades. These details can make a big difference in enjoying the celebration comfortably.
70 Tastes to Try
It wouldn’t be a Disney celebration without the food. With over 70 limited-time food and beverage offerings, there’s something nostalgic and something new for every palate.
From Mickey-shaped celebration waffles to the W.E.D. chili cheese baked potato (inspired by Walt Disney’s original era), and sweet treats like the Mickey hat cookie—you’ll want to pace yourself or come hungry. Don’t skip the themed cold brew or the anniversary churros!
Plan Your Visit
This celebration runs now through summer 2026, with offerings rotating seasonally—so it’s worth visiting more than once if you can!
Pro Tip:
Some shows (like “Wondrous Journeys” and “Better Together”) will temporarily pause during Halloween and the Holidays, then return after the season wraps. Keep an eye on the official Disneyland calendar when planning.
Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or creating brand-new ones with your own children or grandchildren, Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration is all about honoring the joy we’ve shared and the moments still to come.
So lace up your walking shoes, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready to Celebrate Happy—Disneyland style.
