Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary- Celebrating 70 Years Of Magic by Courtney

When Disneyland opened its gates in 1955, Walt Disney dreamed of creating a place where families could escape, dream big, and experience the joy of storytelling together. Seventy years later, that dream is still alive and thriving.
Now, Disneyland is celebrating its 70th anniversary in a big way. The celebration officially kicked off May 16, 2025, and is expected to continue through summer 2026—giving fans plenty of time to plan a visit and be part of this historic milestone. From exclusive anniversary merchandise to limited-time food offerings and dazzling entertainment, there’s so much to experience during this once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Let’s take a closer look at all the magic in store.

Exclusive 70th Anniversary Merchandise & Treats
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary celebration is packed with must-have merch and treats. From shimmering anniversary Minnie ears and nostalgic spirit jerseys to retro-inspired home goods, there’s something for every Disney fan.
A standout item is the limited-edition 70th Anniversary Magic Key—a collectible that unlocks special effects and sounds at designated park locations. Each key comes with a commemorative pin, and the experience feels like a mini scavenger hunt throughout the park, perfect for guests who love uncovering hidden magic. Don’t miss these trending snacks created just for the celebration:

• 70th Anniversary Cake at Plaza Inn – lemon-vanilla cake with blueberry compote and cream cheese frosting.
• Celebration Churro near Sleeping Beauty Castle – rolled in birthday cake sugar with funfetti dipping sauce.
• Throwback Popcorn Bucket – designed like a vintage Disneyland ticket book, found at popcorn carts across the park.

Check the Disneyland app daily for new drops and surprise treats—you never know what special moment you might catch next.

Entertainment & Shows: A Night to Remember
No Disneyland celebration is complete without spectacular entertainment—and the 70th Anniversary is pulling out all the stops. From dazzling parades to evening spectaculars, the park is alive with energy, nostalgia, and plenty of new magic. Two standout parades are bringing the streets of Disneyland to life:

• Paint the Night Parade – This fan-favorite returns, lighting up Main Street, U.S.A. with an electrifying blend of music, color, and over a million sparkling lights. Expect to see beloved characters from Cars, Toy Story, Frozen, and more in a glowing procession that’s pure Disney magic.
• Better Together: A Pixar Celebration – This brand-new daytime parade is full of upbeat music, energetic dance numbers, and heartwarming appearances from your favorite Pixar pals. It’s a vibrant celebration of friendship and storytelling that kids (and grown-ups!) will love.

Pro Tip: Want to skip the crowds and get a great view? Consider booking a Parade Dining Package. These packages pair a delicious meal at select restaurants with reserved viewing for one of the anniversary parades—so you can relax and enjoy the show without camping out early for a spot. 

Tips for Visiting During Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration
Planning to join in the fun during Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary? Here are a few key tips to help you make the most of your visit during this special celebration:

• Book Early: This celebration is drawing major crowds, so don’t wait to lock in your hotel and park reservations—especially if you want to visit during summer weekends or holidays. Booking early also gives you the best shot at snagging dining reservations and other special experiences.
• Grab a Magic Key Early in the Day: If you’re hoping to score the limited-edition Magic Key (the commemorative one, not the pass program!), aim to grab it early. Quantities may be limited each day, and it’s your ticket to unlocking interactive moments, sounds, and effects hidden throughout the park.
• Consider a Dining Package: Whether it’s for a parade or a nighttime spectacular, dining packages are a great way to enjoy a delicious meal and secure priority viewing without the stress of finding a spot. These tend to book quickly, so reserve ahead in the Disneyland app or online.
• Beat the Heat & the Crowds: Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to take advantage of cooler temps and shorter lines. Consider purchasing Disney Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lanes for the most popular rides so you can maximize your time and minimize waiting.
• Capture the Magic: There are tons of 70th anniversary-themed photo ops around the park—from golden signage and floral displays to special backdrops. Don’t forget to ask PhotoPass photographers if they have any anniversary magic shots to add a little surprise to your photos.
• Mobile Order is Your Best Friend: Those anniversary treats go fast! Use the Disneyland app to mobile order snacks like the 70th Celebration Cupcake or the Birthday Cake Churro ahead of time to skip the lines and ensure you don’t miss out.

I was lucky enough to visit Disneyland just a couple of weeks ago and got to experience some of the 70th anniversary festivities firsthand. It was truly magical to take it all in with friends—from the dazzling entertainment to the limited-time treats, and just the overall energy buzzing through the park. There’s something extra special in the air during this celebration, and it’s a memory I’ll always treasure. If Disneyland has ever been on your bucket list, this is the perfect time to go. With so many exciting offerings and surprises around every corner, the 70th anniversary is a celebration you won’t want to miss. And if you need help planning your visit, you know your favorite Mystical Dream Travel agent is just a message away!

Ready to start planning your next adventure?