Disneyland 70th Celebration Tips to Save Time and Money
Summer 2026 will kickstart Disneyland's 70th Celebration, an anniversary event which includes a stunning array of celebratory offerings. From decor, character sightings, dining, merchandise, and shows, the parks will transform for the season.
Looking for Disneyland 70th celebration tips to save you time and money? Find out what things are "can't miss" and what to skip during this magical celebration of the California theme park.
Disneyland 70th Celebration Tips to Save Time and Money
Disneyland's current advertising motto is "Celebrate Happy". However, the logistics of heavy planning, Lightning Lane bookings, and squeezing in special event activities can be less than happy for the normal park guest.
As always in my articles, I will be deep-diving into the practicalities of Disneyland vacations for the regular theme park guest. I'll be sharing my time and money saving tips, which my readers consistently seek.
This article goes beyond the basics of the Disneyland 70th Celebration, with details on how you and your family can maximize your vacation.
Need-to-Know Details About Disneyland 70th Celebration
- WHAT: Disneyland 70th Celebration is a seasonal anniversary event for the Disneyland theme park in California.
- WHEN: Starting May 16th, 2025 and "running through summer" (as per Disney, no exact ending date has been announced). It's expected that some of these shows will pause for Halloween Time events in mid-August, then return at a later date.
- WHERE: Taking place inside Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park
What to See (and What to Skip) During Disneyland's 70th Celebration
Disney vacations can be stressful. I aim to help you know exactly what to see and do, while offering tips and tricks for a smoother experience.
I've attended the Disneyland 70th Celebration. This article shares my personal advice after experiencing the event.
I'm offering up an overview of the event, including tips and tricks on what to see, do and eat. I will also share what activities you should consider skipping over.
Mom Rewritten uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the links in these posts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see the Privacy Policy and Disclosures tab.
I received a complimentary ticket, hotel stay and other compensation during my visit. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Disneyland's 70th Celebration Tips for Saving Money
There are several money-saving deals happening now, in anticipation for the anniversary event. As always, the earlier you purchase, the better the savings.
When you book with Get Away Today (my preferred travel company), you'll never be punished for buying early. Tickets are completely refundable, and Get Away Today will also price-match or refund if a better deal is released!
The Disneyland Anniversary Offer is the hottest ticket deal, offered specifically for the celebration period. This ticket is available for use between May 16 - August 14, 2025. The multi-day pass does not need to be used on consecutive days (but needs to be used before August 14, 2025).
Book a Disneyland Resort Hotel with deep discounts and stay closer to the magic. These are limited time offers, so it's highly recommended to book as soon as possible to take advantage of the savings.
Disneyland's 70th Celebration Tips for Saving Time
There are a number of ways to save time when visiting Disneyland during special events like the 70th anniversary celebration.
As with most vacations, time is money. You've likely already spent a small fortune on your Disney trip, so you'll want to maximize your time in the theme parks. This may include spending extra to ensure this.
That said, there are several no-cost options that Disneyland vacationers can take advantage of! I'm outlining some of the ways to save time while at Disneyland's 70th celebration.
Use Lightning Lane
Formerly called Disney Genie+ (and before that, Fast Pass and Max Pass), this "line cutting" system is an add-on to a regular theme park ticket. Guests can book a return slot to access a separate queue, that may offer a shorter wait time on many popular attractions.
Buy a discounted Disneyland ticket with Lightning Lane built in that may help you save on the overall cost. Purchasing the ticket with Lightning Lane Multi Pass ahead of time locks in the lowest cost.
The Lightning Lane charge can fluctuate to a higher price, depending upon demand. When you buy ahead of time, you pay the lower cost, no matter what the theme park is charging on the day of your visit!
Arrive Early & Stay Late
The earliest morning hours and the last few hours before theme park closing generally offer lower crowds and wait times.
A good theme park touring plan includes arriving early for Disneyland Rope Drop. Consider taking a break during the busiest hours of the day to nap or swim at the hotel. Then return back to the parks for evening, and stay until park closing to take advantage of lower crowds.
Disneyland Dessert Parties and Reserved Seating - Are They Worth the Extra Cost?
Disneyland is busy...all the time. With special events come extra crowds, clamoring to see the latest shows. Getting a spot to view the Disneyland 70th Celebration parades and nighttime spectaculars could prove to be a challenge, particularly on busy days.
Why Book a Disneyland Dessert Party or Dining Package?
Disneyland does offer several dessert party options and dining packages, that include a reserved location to view that particular show. Some of these add-ons offer special seating. This can be a huge perk, especially when it comes to the end of the night when you can't wait to be off your feet!
If you're looking for an ultimate splurge or VIP-type experience, these can really make you feel special. The snacks (served in individual boxes) often add to the theme of the show.
Disneyland Dining Packages Aren't Always a Time Saver
If you're considering booking one of these options, know that they aren't particularly a time-saver. While you won't have to stake out a spot on the main thoroughfare, you'll still be required to arrive to your reserved area/seat at a particular time to secure your spot. This could be an hour or more before the actual show time.
Consider the Kids Before Booking a Dessert Party
While it can be tempting to book the dessert party for the family, keep in mind that the cost can add up. Every person aged 3+ will pay the upcharge when booking. Kids 2 and under must sit on your lap during the party (they won't be given their own seat).
This premium experience might not be a great fit for your family. Consider if your child will be able to stay up late enough to actually enjoy the show. If your kid usually has an earlier bedtime, they may be asleep by the time the party rolls around (and you'll be out for the cost).
This article includes details about each of the new and returning shows coming to the Disneyland parks during the anniversary event. Note under each section, I will highlight some of the Disneyland 70th Celebration tips regarding that particular "dessert party" or "dining package", including whether I think it's worth the added charge.
70th Celebration Parades
Disney parades are traditionally a joyous mix of colorful floats, music, dancing, character appearances. These Disneyland 70th Celebration parades are happening in both of the theme parks and include a new cavalcade and two returning parades.
Celebrate Happy! Cavalcade (new) - Disneyland Park
While a cavalcade isn't technically a parade, we're going to classify it here. The new cavalcade is much shorter than a traditional parade, making it easier to fit into a busy day.
The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade takes place along the usual parade route in Disneyland. Expect to find the usual characters, all dressed in their new 70th anniversary outfits.
The appearance of Duffy and ShellieMay in the cavalcade will be unique in several ways. These teddy bears haven't been spotted at the California theme parks in a very long time. In fact, the casual park guest probably won't know who they are.
These characters (intended to represent toys of Mickey and Minnie) are more represented in the Asian Disney theme parks.
The massive crowds that formed for this cavalcade during the afternoon of my visit was intense. I wasn't expecting there to be parade-like masses gathered for what turns out to be a short show that last just a few minutes.
Paint the Night Parade (returning) - Disneyland Park
This nighttime parade has been a long time in coming back, considering it only ran for a brief time before the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade. It was my favorite evening parade - an absolute can't miss!
Paint the Night parade features over a million lights, beloved characters, with lively dancers and performers. Hope you don't mind hearing the Owl City song, "When Can I See You Again” because you won't be able to get it out of your head after viewing this parade!
Plaza Inn Paint the Night Dining Package - Worth the Cost?
While the parade takes place after nightfall, this dining package is offered only during lunch hours. The dining time is between 1:00-4:00 pm and includes a hearty meal, beverage, and dessert. Guests receive a voucher for that day’s first performance of the Paint the Night parade.
Note that this dining package does not include a seat for the parade. You'll be able to join a reserved area for standing room or ground seating to view the show.
The dining package meal varies from the usual Plaza Inn menu, so keep that in mind, too. While Plaza Inn is known for it's fried chicken, this particular dining plan meal includes meatloaf for adults and chicken tenders for kids (along with sides). That might be a deal-breaker for you, since there are no substitutions available.
The cost for this package is $55 per adult and $28 per child (ages 3 to 9). In my opinion, this is a pretty decent price for what you'll receive.
The upcharge for the reserved viewing area can be worth it, if you prefer not to scope out spots on the parade route.
Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! (returning) - Disney California Adventure park
This charming (albeit too short) parade returns to the streets of DCA. The lively music and Pixar characters from Toy Story, Turning Red, and Soul will have you dancing along. My favorite? Seeing Kevin the bird from UP!
Popular spots are along the streets of Hollywood Land. Having a curb to sit on there can be ideal, if you want to pick a spot early. My preferred location is to stand across the street from Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, near Bayside Brews.
For fans of the Pixar films, this upbeat parade is a must-see. It's a great way for guests to see not-often-seen characters, including the characters from Luca. They ride in a cool under & above water float that highlights their sea monster looks.
Pixar Pals Parade Dessert Party - Worth the Cost?
There is a dessert party with reserved seating, but unless you're up for a splurge, I'd pass on this added cost. There are generally plenty of standing room areas along the Disney California Adventure parade route without having to wait too long beforehand. Plus, this parade has been shown as recently as last summer.
Disney PhotoPass photographers make their way down the dessert party route to snap photos of your group. My friend Becca (Theme Park Tips Gal) and I had the opportunity to experience this dessert party as guests of Disney and Get Away Today.
If having a seat to watch the parade is important, this expensive add-on might be worth it to you. The drinks and specially themed snacks make this a frivolous splurge. This parade is too short - I'd prefer to spend my $94 per person elsewhere.
That said, it is a fun, VIP-type experience. It's nice to have a shaded place to sit and view the parade with an unencumbered view. The treats are unique and delicious (so great that I forgot to take a photo of my box before I gobbled it down!).
You'll also receive a collector pin inside your snack box, exclusive to the parade dessert party.
Nighttime Spectaculars for Disneyland's Anniversary
A number of evening shows will be happening for Disneyland's 70th Celebration. Some shows are new, while others are returning with much anticipation.
I've outlined each of the nighttime shows here, including tips for crowds and dessert party thoughts.
World of Color Happiness! (new) - Disney California Adventure park
This nighttime show takes place at the waters of Paradise Bay and includes lights, music, special effects and projections on fountains and sprays of water.
The show takes place 1 or 2 times nightly. On evenings when the show is presented twice, the later show will be least crowded. However, it may prove to be too late for families with young children, so you'll have to choose which works best for you.
Joy and the other characters from Inside Out movies "host" the show, accompanied by the music of favorite Disney and Pixar movies. Don't miss the pre-show, which includes the beloved Muppets!
I think this is my favorite World of Color show (though they're all excellent). I loved the vibrancy, the variety of characters featured, and the inclusion of one of my favorite songs, "Rainbow Connection".
World of Color Happiness Dessert Party - Worth the Cost?
Premium seats, drinks, and a box of treats with an excellent view of the show. Guests aged 21+ may also choose a seasonal cocktail. Non-alcoholic drinks, including a World of Color seasonal specialty beverage is included.
The $94 cost is definitely one of Disneyland's splurges, but it's a must-do at least once. Sitting down in your own chair to watch the night-time spectacular with an elevated view is awesome, especially after a long touring day.
If you've never done the World of Color dessert party before, this new show might be the perfect excuse to give it a try.
Tapestry of Happiness (new) - Disneyland Park
Projection shows are one of the coolest ways to experience a nighttime show at the Disney parks. Lights and images are projected onto the facade of "it's a small world", accompanied by music. The song "Celebrate Happy" is performed by the Jonas Brothers, and was written exclusively for the Disneyland 70th Celebration.
Tapestry of Happiness is being called a "visual love letter to Disneyland", with an animated mosaic of images in the style of Mary Blair. Most famously known for her work on the "it's a small world" attraction, Mary Blair's unique works as a Disney artist have inspired generations.
These facade projections happen several times nightly. Exact show times will be available in the Disneyland app. In general, the show can be viewed as a walk-up, so there's no need to queue in front of the attraction.
Wonderous Journeys (returning) - Disneyland Park
Every Disney animated film is represented in this hybrid projection/fireworks spectacular. The projections happen nightly, but do not always include fireworks. Be sure to check the calendar to see when fireworks will happen during your visit.
Important to note, that inclement weather and/or high winds can cause fireworks to be canceled. This happened to us. The projections still occur but pyrotechnics aren't set off.
If you'd prefer not to brave watching the show on Main Street U.S.A. in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle (I wouldn't), consider viewing the projection effects from an alternate location. They can also be seen on the Rivers of America and on the "it's a small world" facade.
New Additions Debuting at Disneyland
Just in time for the anniversary celebration, there are a few notable additions coming to the theme parks. Some will be permanent changes, while others are just for a limited time during the special event.
“Walt Disney – A Magical Life”
Cue the tears - For the first time ever, guests will be able to see an audio-animatronic of Walt Disney himself. This presentation of Walt's journey in creating his theme park will debut in the Main Street Opera House theater.
After an initial run, this new show will eventually rotate with the longstanding Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.
Reopening of "it's a small world" with a new character
Miguel and Dante from the Pixar movie Coco will be joining "it's a small world" in the Latin America section of the classic attraction. Look for Miguel and his guitar near a bridge of marigolds.
A Story of Celebration: 70th Anniversary Guided Tour
Guided tours are an excellent way for guests to take a deeper dive into what makes Disneyland so special to so many people.
This new 2-hour walking tour explores Disneyland's heritage from opening to present day. Guides offer insight on Walt's vision and how it continues to evolve as a modern day theme park.
In addition to the tour and stories there are additional VIP-type perks, including a reserved parade viewing for Paint the Night, a popcorn snack, and a tour keepsake memento.
The cost of $120 plus tax and theme park admission makes this an experience for mostly die-hard fans. I've not done any of the guided tours, but as a long-time Disneyland-er I'd love to try this one! Guests can book this tour on the Disneyland website.
Toy Story Midway Mania 70th Anniversary Effects
The interactive ride in Disney California Adventure will have on-screen additions especially for the 70th celebration.
Disneyland 70th Celebration Decorations
Bright blue, hot pink, and gold accents will be splashed around the theme parks, including on banners and buntings. Celebratory decor extends into the esplanade, with a unique 70th celebration sculpture. Look for special anniversary photo ops in Downtown Disney shopping district, as well.
How to Capture the Best Memories During the 70th Celebration
Disney PhotoPass is one of the top ways to get every family member in on the photo memories! Disney Photo Pass photographers will be staked out in popular locations, like at the Main Street U.S.A. hub and in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Expect long wait times for these coveted photo spots.
PhotoPass are high-quality images that can also include "Magic Shot". These special photo enhancements include a Mickey and Minnie Magic Shot taken near the Disneyland park main entrance and Sleeping Beauty Castle.
How to Buy PhotoPass Images?
Disneyland's 70th Celebration Tips for Saving Money: Guests that purchase a Disneyland ticket with Lightning Lane Multi Pass & Premier Pass receive complimentary Photo Pass images. This includes photographs taken by Disney PhotoPass photographers throughout the theme parks.
Another option is to purchase Disney PhotoPass+ One Day. Only one member of your party needs to purchase either Lightning Lane Multi Pass or PhotoPass+ to access images from your group.
Want Photos Without Additional Cost or Long Waits?
Time Saving Tip: Save time by taking your own photos using your own camera or phone. Look for less crowded photo spots or locations that offer multiple views. Spots like the round esplanade installation or the paths to the left or right of Sleeping Beauty Castle offer beautiful views with fewer crowds.
Capturing Memories with Disneyland Theme Park Characters
The festive decor extends into new fashion for the popular Disney characters that meet n' greet with guests. My 1980s-loving heart personally appreciates the mix of pastels with brilliant jewel tones and flair that each character is wearing!
Time Saving Tips: Want to find out where characters are doing meet 'n greets? Looking for where to take Disney PhotoPass pictures? Use the Disneyland app!
Rather than wandering aimlessly or trying to find them by happenstance, these can both be found in the navigation section of the Disneyland app. After clicking the navigation button, use the tabs at the top to find character greetings, PhotoPass locations, and more.
Disney PhotoPass cast members aren't always present to take pictures of guests with the characters. Be prepared with your own camera to capture the shot!
Disneyland Foodie Guide for 70th Celebration
Celebratory dishes and snacks both sweet and savory will be in abundance during Disneyland's summer event. These limited-time 70th Celebration eats will be found all across the resort, from both theme parks, resort hotels, and Downtown Disney restaurants.
In my opinion, the seasonal churros menu has gotten a bit out of control! Maybe I'm a purist, but the gag-worthy toppings and unnatural colors just aren't my favorite.
That said, if you're a fan of these event treats, you'll want to try the 70th Celebration Churro. It's rolled in ube sugar and drizzled with with marbled blue raspberry icing and sprinkles. It's nothing if not totally Instagram-worthy!
Two treats I was really looking forward to trying are found at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe (use mobile ordering to save time). They did NOT disappoint! Both were delicious.
The Celebration Matterhorn Macaroon is dipped in white chocolate and sprinkles. It's several dollars more than the traditional Matterhorn Macaroon with only the addition of sprinkles on the peak. It's delicious for sure, but a pretty small treat for the cost.
The 70th Celebration Macaron is filled with vanilla buttercream, strawberry jam, and fresh strawberry with strawberry whipped topping and strawberry crunch. This one is sharable, but you probably won't want to share (my daughter didn't!).
June is Pride Month, which overlaps with the Disneyland 70th Celebration. Look for specialty snacks and merchandise with rainbow pride. This Linzer cookie with strawberry jam comes from Jolly Holiday. It was yummy and the jam had a delicate sparkle!
Plan Your Meals Ahead of the Trip
Disneyland 70th Celebration Tips to Save Money: No surprise, Disneyland dining and snacks are pricey! When working with a tight food budget, I always plan out my meals before I get in the parks.
Meal and snack pricing can be reviewed ahead of time through the Disneyland app. This can be an ideal way to figure out how much you'll actually be spending on food while on vaation.
Another Disney trick is to bring your own snacks and water into the parks with you. Rather than spend nearly $5 on a Diet Coke, it's easy to pack in your own plastic bottle of soda (I always do this!).
Use Mobile Ordering to Save Time
Disneyland 70th Celebration Tips to Save Time: Don't waste time waiting in line to order quick service meals! Order food via the Disneyland app using the mobile ordering system. It's easy to place orders, while offering the ability to choose a time slot for pick up.
When it's time to eat, click the "I'm Here" button and pick up your meal at one of the designated mobile order windows. You'll shave off so much time by ordering ahead!
Disneyland 70th Celebration Tips for Buying Merchandise
I'm all in for the brilliant colors, glitter, sparkle, and iridescence! Guests who love to shop to coordinate with the event looks will find plenty to deck them out from head to toe, including popular spirit jerseys, hats, and Loungefly bags.
My daughter has already spotted the plush characters, dressed in their special event costumes. Even though I've said, "No more stuffies!", I have to admit I'd like to have one or more of them myself!
These are a few more of what will likely be hot collectible items for the Disneyland 70th Celebration:
Key to Disneyland
This oversized key offers an interactive experience for guests to "unlock the magic" in each of the theme park's nine lands.
Each of Disneyland's lands will have a 70th Anniversary lock station. Insert the key for visual effects, music and the opportunity to unlock a special souvenir.
When all nine lands are unlocked, the key will reveal a commemorative keepsake pin. Guest must visit the Mickey Topiary Finale lock station by the entrance to Disneyland Park (near the Newsstand and tunnel) after visiting all lands to unlock the pin.
There are nine different collectible pins that can only be found inside the Key to Disneyland (they cannot be purchased separately).
The key will save progress, allowing guests to use the experience in one day or spread out through several trips during the event period.
If you have multiple days to spend at the parks (and don't mind carrying this big key all day!), this could be a worthwhile souvenir. The cost is around $60.
It's been such a popular souvenir that it was actually sold out during our visit (I received one as a gift from Disney during the media event I attended).
WATCH VIDEO: I shared a reel on Instagram detailing more about how the Key to Disneyland works.
What do you do if your "key" doesn't unlock the prize?
Despite completing the finale several times, my daughter's Key to Disneyland didn't open. There is a small compartment that hides the collector pin but it didn't pop open. Fortunately there's a way to open at home.
Simply insert the head of a pin or end of a paperclip into the tiny hole in the handle. Hold it in there for 3 seconds. The compartment will open and your prize will be revealed, accompanied by the music of Fantasmic!
MagicBand+ Interactions and Effects
While MagicBands have been used with much success at the theme parks of Walt Disney World in Florida, they are a fairly new addition to the California parks. Guests can use the bands to tap in for Lightning Lane queues and unlock unique interactions.
For the anniversary event, MagicBand+ will interact with some of the new entertainment experiences with synchronized vibrations and lights. In addition, there are 5 special spots to unlock new experiences, inspired by opening day attractions. Find them here:
- Tilly’s Booth at Main Street Cinema
- Frontierland Booth at Silver Spur Supplies (celebrating The Golden Horseshoe, the Mark Twain Riverboat and the Disneyland Railroad)
- Fantasyland Window by Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (celebrating the Snow White attraction, Mad Tea Party, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, Peter Pan’s Flight and King Arthur Carrousel)
- Skipper Lockers at Jungle Cruise in Adventureland
- Autopia in Tomorrowland
Disneyland 70th Celebration Tips to Save Time: MagicBand+ must be fully charged ahead of time in order to use them in the parks. Consider purchasing ahead of your visit from the Disney Store online to charge and have ready for your first vacation day.
This great new 70th celebration design may sway me to purchase my first Disneyland MagicBand+!
Disneyland Resort 70th Medallions
These large two-sided coins will come in 70 new designs, including specialty releases and styles. The Disneyland Resort 70th Medallions are sold individually or in a pack of four.
Disneyland's 70th Celebration Tips to Save Money: Not every merchandise item will be available online (I'm looking at you Light Up Mickey Balloon Popcorn Bucket!). However a good number of these Disneyland 70th Celebration souvenirs will be available for purchase at Disney Store website.
In addition to being able to view items without walking through the gift shops, the Disney Store also frequently offers discount codes. You'll be able to purchase ahead of your trip, perhaps saving yourself a few bucks.
Author and owner Julie Bigboy shares first hand knowledge on a variety of subjects, including family travel, positive parenting, and simple living. Her work can be found on The Points Guy, SheBuys Travel, MiceChat and Disneyland With Kids, among others.
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