As Disneyland gears up to mark its 70th anniversary in May 2025, fans of the iconic theme park are buzzing with excitement over the return of beloved attractions and the introduction of new ones. Disneyland has always excelled at throwing memorable celebrations, and if the past spectacles for its 50th and 60th anniversaries are anything to go by, the upcoming festivities are set to be nothing short of spectacular.
A Blend of Old Favorites and New Classics
The celebration promises a greatest hits compilation of Disneyland’s recent decades, combining fresh entertainment with revived classics that have enchanted visitors over the years. A standout attraction making a comeback is the Paint the Night parade. Launched during the park’s 60th anniversary, this parade is a modern take on the beloved Main Street Electrical Parade, featuring vibrant floats and catchy music that lights up the night.
In addition, the fireworks spectacle, Wondrous Journeys, which premiered during the Disney 100 celebration, is set to dazzle guests once more. This show, complete with an original musical score and breathtaking projections of Disney animations, offers a magical experience above the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle.
The recent Pixar Fest introduced “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration,” which will also see a return during the anniversary year. This parade, seen as a spiritual successor to the Pixar Play Parade, has been a hit for its innovative blend of Pixar characters and stories.
What’s New on the Horizon
While the nostalgia factor runs high with the return of these crowd-pleasers, Disneyland is also set to introduce brand new attractions that promise to be instant hits. Notably, World of Color – Happy will debut at Disney California Adventure, adding to the already successful lineup of World of Color shows.
The most anticipated addition, however, is “Walt Disney – A Magical Life.” This attraction will feature a state-of-the-art audio-animatronic Walt Disney, offering visitors a unique and immersive look at the life of the man behind the magic. This bold move by Walt Disney Imagineering is expected to be a highlight of the celebration.
Missed Opportunities and Fan Favorites
Despite the excitement, there are notable absences in the lineup that have left some fans, including myself, feeling a bit let down. “Mickey and the Magical Map,” a stage show beloved for its dynamic blend of Disney music and innovative stagecraft, has not made the cut. This show was a staple at the Fantasyland Theater until the pandemic forced its closure, and many hoped it would return for the anniversary celebrations.
Moreover, the absence of any announcement about the Mad T Party’s return has been a particular disappointment. This live band, which performed covers in the style of Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland, was a unique and popular feature of past celebrations. Its surprise performance at the D23 Expo had sparked hopes of a revival.
As we approach the 70th anniversary of Disneyland, the blend of returning classics and exciting new additions underscores the park’s ongoing commitment to innovation while respecting its rich history. While some fans may feel the sting of missed opportunities, the overall lineup for the celebration promises to deliver the magical experiences that Disneyland is known for.