Disney has officially kicked off its year-long celebration of Disneyland's 70th anniversary, and we were thrilled to get a sneak peek at all the planned festivities for Summer 2026. This guide will give you the lowdown on the entertainment, food and beverages, merchandise, and more that you can look forward to during your visit.

From the return of the dazzling Paint the Night parade to nostalgic food offerings and a unique Disneyland Key that unlocks surprises across the park, there's so much to be excited about. Below, discover the twelve highlights you need to know about Disneyland's 70th anniversary, and share with us what you're most eager to experience!

1. Paint the Night Is Back With Elsa, Anna, and Over One Million LED Lights

The beloved Paint the Night parade, which first illuminated Disneyland during its 60th anniversary, is making a triumphant return for the 70th celebrations. After its initial run concluded in 2016, it's back with over a million LED lights, the enchanting presence of Frozen's Anna and Elsa, and more, creating a mesmerizing nighttime experience that's not to be missed.

2. Disneyland is More Affordable Thanks to Limited-Time 70th Anniversary Ticket and Disneyland Hotel Offers

Planning a visit for the 70th anniversary? Disney is making it more accessible with special offers. Guests can snag a 3-day, 1-park per day ticket for as low as $360 or a 4-day ticket for just $400, valid from May 16 to August 14, without the need for consecutive use.

For those looking to stay on-site, the Disneyland Hotel offers up to 20% off select stays between May 16 and August 14, allowing guests to enjoy the hotel's unique 70th anniversary decorations, themed in-room celebrations, and special beverages. Staying at a Disneyland Resort also places you steps away from Downtown Disney, adorned with festive 70th anniversary medallions and photo-worthy spots, ensuring a fully immersive experience.

3. World of Color Happiness! - A New Version of the Disney California Adventure Water Show Featuring Inside Out

Disney California Adventure's latest nighttime spectacle, World of Color Happiness!, marks the seventh iteration since its 2010 debut. Inspired by Walt Disney's opening day dedication, this show celebrates happiness with over a million water fountains and projections. Inside Out's emotions take center stage, with guests able to influence the show's narrative through voting on the Disneyland app. A new pre-show featuring The Muppets, who are also celebrating their 70th anniversary, adds a delightful touch. The musical score includes a special rendition of 'Rainbow Connection' by Boyz II Men and a new original song, 'Makes Me Wanna Move,' by FITZ.

For more on the emotional and visually stunning World of Color - ONE from Disneyland's 100th anniversary, check out our review.

4. Wondrous Journeys Celebrates Over 60 Walt Disney Animation Studios Films With Fireworks, Projections, and Music

Returning for Disneyland's 70th, Wondrous Journeys is a nighttime spectacular that honors over 60 films from Walt Disney Animation Studios. This show, which first dazzled during Disney's 100th anniversary, captures the essence of dreams and determination. Offering unique experiences across Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, Rivers of America, and it's a small world, it remains a must-see for its heartfelt storytelling and stunning visuals.

Learn more about Wondrous Journeys in our Disney 100th Anniversary Guide.

5. Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! Shines a Spotlight on the Importance of Friendship with Toy Story, Coco, and More

Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! returns for Disneyland's 70th, featuring beloved characters from Pixar films like Toy Story, The Incredibles, and more. This parade, which debuted during Pixar Fest 2024, emphasizes the power of friendship and acceptance, delivering a message that resonates with guests of all ages.

6. Tapestry of Happiness Brings a Special Projection Show to it's a small world that Celebrates Disneyland's Past

The surprise hit of the 70th Anniversary Media Preview, Tapestry of Happiness transforms the façade of it's a small world with a five-minute projection show that beautifully celebrates Disneyland's history. Inspired by Disney Legend Mary Blair, it features iconic attractions and weaves in The Jonas Brothers' 'Celebrate Happy' theme song. Additionally, Coco's Miguel and Dante join the attraction, and a new verse from Richard M. Sherman will be added on July 17.

7. The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade at Disneyland Stars Duffy and ShellieMay

We were excited to preview The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade, led by Duffy and ShellieMay. Originally introduced at Tokyo Disney Resort, these characters bring their charm stateside in a smaller yet delightful parade that's perfect for Disney fans.

8. Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! Is the Perfect Place to Take Your Kids For Some Dancing and Fun

Aimed at younger guests, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! is a fun-filled show where Mickey and friends embark on an adventure to find Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto. With themed houses, bubbles, and fake snow, it's a lively experience that's perfect for a family outing.

9. Disneyland 70th Merch, Led by the Disneyland Key, Is a Celebration of Today and Yesterday

Disneyland's 70th anniversary brings a plethora of new merchandise, highlighted by the interactive Disneyland Key. This key allows guests to unlock special experiences in each of the park's nine lands, culminating in a final surprise at the Mickey Topiary Finale lock. Additionally, there's a wide range of merchandise that honors both the past and present of Disneyland.

Disneyland 70th Anniversary Merch

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Explore all the 70th Anniversary merchandise offerings in the slideshow above and here.

10. Disneyland Food and Drinks Offer a Window Back in Time With a Delicious Twist

A highlight of any Disney celebration is the unique food and drink offerings. For the 70th anniversary, over 70 items await, blending new delights with nostalgic dishes inspired by Disneyland's opening day. From Banana Splits to Apple Pancake Rolls, and innovative treats like the 70th Celebration Churro, there's something for every palate.

Disneyland 70th Anniversary Food and Drinks

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Discover the full range of 70th anniversary food offerings in the slideshow above and here.

11. Toy Story Midway Mania!, Carthay Circle, Downtown Disney, and Much More

Disneyland's 70th anniversary is packed with exciting additions. Toy Story Midway Mania! now features 70th anniversary stickers for bonus points, while Celebrate Happy: A Little Bit of Magic Every Night illuminates Carthay Circle. Animation Courtyard showcases new themes from Encanto, Coco, and more. For MagicBand+ users, special interaction points at Jungle Cruise and Frontierland offer commemorative tickets.

12. Walt Disney - A Magical Life and More Experiences to Come

While the celebrations begin on May 16, the official anniversary on July 17 will see the debut of Walt Disney - A Magical Life, featuring Walt as an Audio-Animatronic in his office. Alongside this, an Evolution of a Dream exhibit will showcase Walt's personal items and celebrate Disney's cast members.

For more insights into how Disney is bringing Walt back to life, read our story. And don't miss our coverage of a century of Disney Magic and the top 25 Disney animated movies of all time.