Disneyland® is celebrating its 70th anniversary through August 2026, honoring its July 17, 1955 opening with a season full of color, nostalgia, and high-energy entertainment. If you’re planning a visit to Disneyland® in June, you’re in luck: the party is already underway, but there’s still time to catch the festivities. In fact, summer is one of the best times to experience the party before the Disneyland® 70th anniversary end date.

The celebration’s theme, “celebrate happy,” shows up everywhere, from bright celebratory decor to limited-time shows, character moments, and of course, limited-time themed treats and merchandise. Expect festive bunting, vibrant installations, a special medallion adorning Sleeping Beauty Castle, and facades over some of the most popular attractions. It’s the kind of all-out celebration the theme park does best, and it sets the tone for a lineup of standout Disneyland® 70th anniversary events.

Celebrate the Disneyland® 70th Anniversary During Peak Summer Season

The nighttime spectaculars are arguably one of the biggest highlights this year. Wondrous Journeys lights up the sky with special fireworks most summer nights, with projections stretching across the castle, Main Street, U.S.A., “it’s a small world,” and the Rivers of America. Over at Disney California Adventure, a reimagined World of Color show taps into the idea of “happy,” weaving scenes together from fan-favorite movies like Inside Out with fountains, lasers, and music.

Many visitors plan their entire itinerary around parades. The beloved Paint the Night parade returns, led by Tinkerbell and glowing with over one million LED lights, while the Celebrate Happy Cavalcade brings quick bursts of music and characters along the regular parade route. Keep an eye out for Mickey and Minnie Mouse, as well as all their friends (including some rarely seen!) in anniversary-themed outfits—especially during the lively midday procession from the castle to Town Square.

Elsewhere in the park, smaller details give more subtle nods to the anniversary. “it’s a small world” features a new projection show on its nighttime facade, and you’ll find a refreshed finale inside. A show-stopping 50-foot installation near the castle pays tribute to Disneyland’s five original lands, and a new theme song, performed by the wildly popular Jonas Brothers, pops up throughout the day.

For something more reflective and educational, stop by the Main Street Opera House for Walt Disney – A Magical Life, a cinematic look at Walt’s journey paired with an updated gallery showcasing the evolution of Disneyland®. Want a deeper dive? The guided 70th anniversary walking tour offers a curated look at the park’s history. This tour does require reservations and comes with a separate fee, but includes select attractions, one Lightning Lane pass, snacks, and reserved viewing for nighttime entertainment.

Plan a Multi-Day Disneyland® Trip to Take It All In

With so much happening this summer, one day simply isn’t enough. A multi-day visit gives you time to experience the biggest Disneyland® 70th anniversary events without rushing, plus revisit your favorites. Staying just steps away from the park at Tropicana Inn & Suites makes it easy, with a convenient location for taking breaks, recharging, and heading back in for nighttime shows. Maximize every minute of your Disneyland® Summer visit at Tropicana Inn & Suites. We’ll see you soon!