7 Magical Highlights From the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration You Can’t Miss
May 22, 2025
As Disneyland Resort marks its incredible 70th anniversary, I just have to say: there’s magic literally everywhere right now. While I could honestly list 70 things I loved about this celebration, I’ll keep it short and sweet with just my top 7—so you can stop reading and start heading to the parks yourself!
Let’s jump in:
1. “World of Color – Happiness!” at Disney California Adventure Park
This nighttime spectacular is a must-see! The “Happiness!” version brings the emotion of Disney storytelling to life using dazzling fountains, lasers, and music. One of the most memorable segments for me? The Goofy Movie tribute, complete with Powerline’s “I2I”—it was pure nostalgia overload!
Seeing Goofy, Max, and Powerline projected across the water with perfectly timed choreography and lighting made the whole crowd cheer. If you grew up with this movie, you’re going to lose it (in the best way).
In Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif., the all-new nighttime spectacular, “World of Color Happiness!” transforms Paradise Bay with its dazzling projections, colorful lights and brilliant signature fountains. This nighttime spectacular is inspired by Walt Disney’s opening day dedication: “To all who come to this happy place… welcome!” Guests explore “happy” through the Emotions from “Inside Out” and “Inside Out 2” beginning on May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
In Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim Calif., the all-new nighttime spectacular, “World of Color Happiness!” transforms Paradise Bay with its dazzling projections, colorful lights and brilliant signature fountains. This nighttime spectacular is inspired by Walt Disney’s opening day dedication: “To all who come to this happy place… welcome!” Guests explore “happy” with the Emotions from “Inside Out” and “Inside Out 2” as they manifest music and moments from other favorite Disney and Pixar stories including “Turning Red,” “The Incredibles,” “A Goofy Movie,” “Tangled,” “Encanto” and more. The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration begins May 16, 2025, for a limited time. (Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
In Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim Calif., the all-new nighttime spectacular, “World of Color Happiness!” transforms Paradise Bay with its dazzling projections, colorful lights and brilliant signature fountains. This nighttime spectacular is inspired by Walt Disney’s opening day dedication: “To all who come to this happy place… welcome!” Guests explore “happy” with the Emotions from “Inside Out” and “Inside Out 2” as they manifest music and moments from other favorite Disney and Pixar stories including “Turning Red,” “The Incredibles,” “A Goofy Movie,” “Tangled,” “Encanto” and more. The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration begins May 16, 2025, for a limited time. (Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
In Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif., the all-new nighttime spectacular, “World of Color Happiness!” transforms Paradise Bay with its dazzling projections, colorful lights and brilliant signature fountains. This nighttime spectacular is inspired by Walt Disney’s opening day dedication: “To all who come to this happy place… welcome!” Guests explore “happy” through the Emotions from “Inside Out” and “Inside Out 2” beginning on May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
In Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif., the all-new nighttime spectacular, “World of Color Happiness!” transforms Paradise Bay with its dazzling projections, colorful lights and brilliant signature fountains. This nighttime spectacular is inspired by Walt Disney’s opening day dedication: “To all who come to this happy place… welcome!” Guests explore “happy” through the Emotions from “Inside Out” and “Inside Out 2” beginning on May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
In Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif., the all-new nighttime spectacular, “World of Color Happiness!” transforms Paradise Bay with its dazzling projections, colorful lights and brilliant signature fountains. This nighttime spectacular is inspired by Walt Disney’s opening day dedication: “To all who come to this happy place… welcome!” Guests explore “happy” through the Emotions from “Inside Out” and “Inside Out 2” beginning on May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration Begins May 16, 2025 – “World of Color Happiness!”
In Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim Calif., the all-new nighttime spectacular, “World of Color Happiness!” transforms Paradise Bay with its dazzling projections, colorful lights and brilliant signature fountains. This nighttime spectacular is inspired by Walt Disney’s opening day dedication: “To all who come to this happy place… welcome!” Guests explore “happy” with the Emotions from “Inside Out” and “Inside Out 2” as they manifest music and moments from other favorite Disney and Pixar stories including “Turning Red,” “The Incredibles,” “A Goofy Movie,” “Tangled,” “Encanto” and more. The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration begins May 16, 2025, for a limited time. Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
2. “Paint the Night” Parade at Disneyland Park
It’s back, and it’s brighter than ever! With over one million LED lights, this nighttime parade lights up Main Street like a cosmic rainbow. Watching Lightning McQueen cruise by in glowing red with the Pixar gang behind him was thrilling.
Each float is synced with an energetic soundtrack and clever lighting design that makes characters look like they’ve jumped right out of a digital dream. Don’t blink—you’ll miss something amazing.
The fan-favorite parade, “Paint the Night,” which features stunning colors, vibrant floats and more than a million brilliant LED lights returns to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. for a limited time. Guests can “celebrate happy” during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration beginning May 16, 2025. (Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
The fan-favorite parade, “Paint the Night,” which features stunning colors, vibrant floats and more than a million brilliant LED lights returns to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. for a limited time. Guests can “celebrate happy” during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration beginning May 16, 2025. (Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
The fan-favorite parade, “Paint the Night,” which features stunning colors, vibrant floats and more than a million brilliant LED lights returns to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. for a limited time. Guests can “celebrate happy” during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration beginning May 16, 2025. (Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
The fan-favorite parade, “Paint the Night,” which features stunning colors, vibrant floats and more than a million brilliant LED lights returns to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. for a limited time. Guests can “celebrate happy” during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration beginning May 16, 2025. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
The fan-favorite parade, “Paint the Night,” which features stunning colors, vibrant floats and more than a million brilliant LED lights returns to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. for a limited time. Guests can “celebrate happy” during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration beginning May 16, 2025. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
The fan-favorite parade, “Paint the Night,” which features stunning colors, vibrant floats and more than a million brilliant LED lights returns to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. for a limited time. Guests can “celebrate happy” during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration beginning May 16, 2025. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
The fan-favorite parade, “Paint the Night,” which features stunning colors, vibrant floats and more than a million brilliant LED lights returns to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. for a limited time. Guests can “celebrate happy” during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration beginning May 16, 2025. (Sean Teegarden/Disneyland Resort)
3. “Wondrous Journeys” Fireworks Show
There’s no better way to wrap up a Disneyland day than watching fireworks explode over Sleeping Beauty Castle while scenes from every Disney Animation film are projected around you.
The showstopper? Baymax flying through the sky, just above the castle. It’s jaw-dropping. You’ll laugh, cry, and probably want to watch it again before you leave.
At night, Disneyland becomes a magnificent canvas with the return of the beloved “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular, which nods to Walt Disney Animation Studios films created over the past century at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. The show features state-of-the-art projection effects that transform Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” goes even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
At night, Disneyland becomes a magnificent canvas with the return of the beloved “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular, which nods to Walt Disney Animation Studios films created over the past century at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. The show features state-of-the-art projection effects that transform Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” goes even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
At night, Disneyland becomes a magnificent canvas with the return of the beloved “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular, which nods to Walt Disney Animation Studios films created over the past century at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. The show features state-of-the-art projection effects that transform Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” goes even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
At night, Disneyland becomes a magnificent canvas with the return of the beloved “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular, which nods to Walt Disney Animation Studios films created over the past century at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. The show features state-of-the-art projection effects that transform Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” goes even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
At night, Disneyland becomes a magnificent canvas with the return of the beloved “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular, which nods to Walt Disney Animation Studios films created over the past century at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. The show features state-of-the-art projection effects that transform Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” goes even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
At night, Disneyland becomes a magnificent canvas with the return of the beloved “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular, which nods to Walt Disney Animation Studios films created over the past century at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. The show features state-of-the-art projection effects that transform Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” goes even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
At night, Disneyland becomes a magnificent canvas with the return of the beloved “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular, which nods to Walt Disney Animation Studios films created over the past century at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. The show features state-of-the-art projection effects that transform Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” goes even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
At night, Disneyland becomes a magnificent canvas with the return of the beloved “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular, which nods to Walt Disney Animation Studios films created over the past century at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. The show features state-of-the-art projection effects that transform Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” goes even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
4. 70th Anniversary Merchandise
Collectors, get your wallets ready. The Castle Collection is my favorite—it features beautiful jackets, mugs, and accessories with sleek anniversary branding.
And let’s talk about the Key to Disneyland. It’s not only a cute keepsake but part of an interactive moment that makes you feel like you’re unlocking your own Disneyland magic. A must-have!
Disneyland Resort 70th Anniversary Merchandise – Castle Collection
Beginning May 16, 2025, and continuing through summer 2026, the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration in Anaheim, Calif., will honor seven decades of happiness and many moments of joy in the making. Inspired by Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Park, the Castle Collection sparkles with beautiful, pixie dust filled apparel and accessories. (Disneyland Resort)
With the Key to Disneyland, guests can unlock the magic within each of the nine lands of Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. Once all nine lands are “unlocked” the key will reveal one of the hidden commemorative trading pins inside. The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration begins May 16, 2025, for a limited time. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
With the Key to Disneyland, guests can unlock the magic within each of the nine lands of Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. Once all nine lands are “unlocked” the key will reveal one of the hidden commemorative trading pins inside. The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration begins May 16, 2025, for a limited time. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
Disneyland Resort 70th Anniversary Merchandise – Key to Disneyland
Beginning May 16, 2025, and continuing through summer 2026, the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration in Anaheim, Calif., will honor seven decades of happiness and many moments of joy in the making. With the Key to Disneyland, guests can unlock the magic within each of Disneyland Park’s nine lands. Once all nine lands are “unlocked” the key will reveal one of nine hidden commemorative trading pins inside. (Disneyland Resort)
With the Key to Disneyland, guests can unlock the magic within each of the nine lands of Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. Once all nine lands are “unlocked” the key will reveal one of the hidden commemorative trading pins inside. The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration begins May 16, 2025, for a limited time. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
5. “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” Parade
This parade is a total joy-fest. Held during the day at Disney California Adventure, it’s a colorful, character-packed celebration of Pixar’s best: The Incredibles, Toy Story crew, Joy and Sadness, and more.
The best part is the super catchy song that follows you out of the park. It’s bright, upbeat, and had everyone dancing in the streets.
Guests will be able to “celebrate happy” with the return of the high-energy parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif. The parade features high-energy dancing and appearances by more than two dozen Pixar characters, including Pixar friends Mr. Incredible and Mrs. Incredible from Disney and Pixar’s “The Incredibles,” Miguel from Disney and Pixar’s “Coco,” Mike and Sulley from Disney and Pixar’s “Monsters, Inc.,” and Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear from “Toy Story” in the grand finale. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
Guests will “celebrate happy” with the return of the high-energy parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif. This daytime parade is filled with incredible music, dynamic and colorful floats and more than two dozen favorite characters from Pixar Animation Studios films, including friends like Luca, Alberto and Giulia from Disney and Pixar’s “Luca” enjoying their time together on the water’s edge in Portorosso. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025 during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Michael Owen Baker/Disneyland Resort)
Guests will “celebrate happy” with the return of the high-energy parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif. This daytime parade is filled with incredible music, dynamic and colorful floats and more than two dozen favorite characters from Pixar Animation Studios films, including Woody from “Toy Story” in the grand finale. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Michael Owen Baker/Disneyland Resort)
Guests will “celebrate happy” with the return of the high-energy parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif. This daytime parade is filled with incredible music, dynamic and colorful floats and more than two dozen favorite characters from Pixar Animation Studios films, including friends from Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” celebrating the sweeter things in life. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
Guests will “celebrate happy” with the return of the high-energy parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif. This daytime parade is filled with incredible music, dynamic and colorful floats and more than two dozen favorite characters from Pixar Animation Studios films, including friends like Luca, Alberto and Giulia from Disney and Pixar’s “Luca” enjoying their time together on the water’s edge in Portorosso. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025 during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
Guests will be able to “celebrate happy” with the return of the high-energy parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif. This daytime parade is filled with incredible music, dynamic and colorful floats and more than two dozen favorite characters from Pixar Animation Studios films, including Pixar friends Miguel from Disney and Pixar’s “Coco” in the grand finale. The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025 during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort)
Guests will be able to “celebrate happy” with the return of the high-energy parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif. This daytime parade is filled with incredible music, dynamic and colorful floats and more than two dozen favorite characters from Pixar Animation Studios films, including Pixar friends from Disney and Pixar’s “Turning Red.” The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025 during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
Guests will be able to “celebrate happy” with the return of the high-energy parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif. The parade features high-energy dancing and appearances by more than two dozen Pixar characters, including Pixar friends from Disney and Pixar’s “Up.” The limited-time entertainment begins May 16, 2025, during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
6. 70th Anniversary Food Highlights
There are tons of sweet and savory bites to try, but the standout for me was the Mocha Cream Puff—filled with cinnamon-mocha pastry cream and topped with chocolate drizzle and chocolate-covered corn chips. Sounds wild, tastes amazing.
It’s one of those snacks you’ll crave when you get home. Make sure you grab one before they disappear!
7. W.E.D. Chili Cheese Baked Potato
Named after Walt Disney’s W.E.D. Enterprises, this new menu item feels like something he’d love. It’s a baked potato stacked with beef and bean chili, shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and a sweet cornbread topping.
Available at Troubadour Tavern, it’s warm, filling, and perfect after a day of rides and fireworks. Comfort food, Disney-style.
Honorable Mention: The Vibe of the Entire Park
Even beyond these seven highlights, the park is fully dressed for the occasion. Decorations in hot pink, royal purple, and cyan blue pop against the classic Disneyland aesthetic. Every banner, sign, and window display proudly shows off the 70th Anniversary logo—making every step feel like part of something historic.
Final Thoughts
From nostalgic shows to collectible merch and Instagram-worthy food, the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration is the perfect excuse to return to the magic. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Annual Passholder, there’s something new and exciting waiting around every corner.
If you’re planning your trip, you can find the latest ticket pricing, park reservations, and special offers directly at the official Disneyland website. Be sure to book early—especially during weekends and special event nights—because this limited-time celebration continues through summer 2026 and you won’t want to miss a moment!
I’m a dedicated aficionado of all things movies, pop culture, and entertainment. With a passion for storytelling and a love for the silver screen, I’m constantly immersed in the world of cinema, exploring new releases, classics, and hidden gems alike. As a fervent advocate for the power of film to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought, I enjoy sharing my insights, reviews, and recommendations with fellow enthusiasts.