As someone who was a huge fan of Disneyland’s 60th Anniversary, I went into the 70th with very high expectations. I can honestly say I was pleasantly surprised! Disney really knows how to celebrate a milestone, and this anniversary feels like the perfect blend of nostalgia and festivity. If you’ve been considering a trip to the Disneyland Resort, here are a few reasons the 70th Anniversary is the perfect time to go.
The Glorious Return of Paint the Night
Let’s be honest, one of the best things to ever happen to Disneyland entertainment was Paint the Night. This beloved nighttime parade is back, and it’s even better than before. The floats have received subtle upgrades, including brighter LED technology and a few new character moments that had the crowd cheering. Seeing Tinker Bell fly down Main Street with her glittering trail of pixie dust is just as magical as I remembered, and the catchy soundtrack had me smiling the entire time. If you missed it during the 60th, this is your chance to experience a highly energetic parade.
Aesthetic (and Tasty!) Snacks
Disney always delivers on themed food, but the 70th anniversary treats really lean into the pastel, Instagram-worthy aesthetic. My favorite was the Pink Mickey Balloon Marshmallow, which is a marshmallow dipped in white chocolate. They come in blue and pink, which makes them perfect for matching with your outfit or sharing with a friend. You can get your own treat for $7.99 at Candy Palace in Disneyland, Wonderful World of Sweets in Downtown Disney.
Specialty Coffees Worth the Hype
Specialty coffees always make a celebration better, and Disneyland’s 70th anniversary offered a few new ones to try. My standout pick was the Honey Cold Brew which is perfectly balanced, just sweet enough, and refreshing for a long park day. It’s topped with a honey drizzle and a sprinkle of hot cereal for some crunch. You can grab this specialty drink at The Hungry Bear, which also makes for a great shaded spot to take a break during your busy park day.
A Touch of Walt
Brand new to any Disney Park, you can hear Walt Disney speak on his inspiration for creating “The Happiest Place on Earth” as he speaks in “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” inside of the Opera House. One of my favorite touches was the limited-time exhibit featuring memorabilia from the park’s history. It’s a beautiful reminder of where it all started and how much care goes into preserving Walt’s legacy. Seeing original sketches, vintage photos, and models from past attractions felt like stepping back in time and honoring the man who dreamed up this magical land.
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary is a celebration that feels both familiar and fresh. Whether you’re coming back for the nostalgia or experiencing magic for the first time, there’s something extra magical about being in the park during a milestone year. From nighttime parades to aesthetic snacks and a touch of Disney history, the 70th Anniversary offers plenty of reasons to plan your next trip. If you loved the 60th, this celebration is not to be missed as it’s a perfect reminder that the magic is alive as you walk down the original Main Street, U.S.A.
Featured Photo: Emily Murray.
Written by
Izi Kostinec
From hunting for Hidden Mickeys to trading pins with anyone who had a lanyard, Izi grew up finding joy in the little details of Walt Disney World. That love for the parks eventually led to roles as a Cast Member on both coasts – at Disneyland and across several teams in Florida. These days, you’ll often find Izi wandering Disney resorts, diving into bits of park history, or finding the perfect spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere in the parks.
