By Thorne Wilder | Updated March 2025

Sleeping Beauty Castle decked out for Disneyland’s Platinum Jubilee Celebration.

🏰 A Legacy of Magic: 70 Years of Disneyland

On July 17, 1955, Walt Disney opened the gates to what he called “the happiest place on Earth.” Seventy years later, Disneyland in Anaheim, California, is celebrating a magical milestone with a year-long 70th Anniversary Platinum Jubilee Celebration that promises to be one of the most memorable in the park’s history.

Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan or a first-time visitor, 2025 is the perfect year to experience Disneyland in all its nostalgic, reimagined glory.

🎊 What to Expect from the 70th Anniversary Celebration

Disneyland’s 70th is more than just a birthday it’s a full-blown experience packed with exclusive shows, dazzling decorations, and surprise character appearances.

✨ Platinum-Themed Decor

The park is adorned in shimmering platinum and royal blue hues. Expect sparkling banners, character statues, and a beautifully enhanced Sleeping Beauty Castle featuring a 70th medallion centerpiece.

🎆 New Nighttime Spectaculars

• “World of Color: Happiness” at Disney California Adventure – a breathtaking new show combining water, music, and projections.
• “Paint the Night” Parade – a fan-favorite returns, with dazzling floats and over a million LED lights.
• Cinderella Castle Projections – nightly tributes to 70 years of Disneyland magic.

📽️ A Tribute to Walt

Opening on July 17, 2025, is the all-new “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” cinematic experience, showcasing the visionary's journey from Kansas City to creating an empire of wonder.

🧒 Perfect for Families, Friends, and Fans

No matter your age, the celebration has something for everyone:

• Character meet-and-greets with rare or retro characters
• Limited-edition 70th merchandise and collectibles
• Exclusive food and drink offerings, like the “Platinum Pixie Churro” and “Magic Maker Milkshake”

Pro Tip: Use the Disney Genie+ system to skip lines and snag spots for high-demand shows and rides.

📅 When to Visit

The Platinum Jubilee officially begins May 16, 2025, and will run through Summer 2026. For fewer crowds and great weather, visit in late May or early fall.

Click here to buy tickets or check official updates.

📸 Instagram-Worthy Moments

• The decorated castle at golden hour
• “Paint the Night” parade in full glow
• 70th-themed signage and character statues throughout both parks

🔗 More Info from Trusted Travel Sites

• CN Traveler’s Guide to Disneyland in 2025
• Vogue’s U.S. Travel Hotspots
• U.S. News: Best Places to Visit in March

🧳 A Year to Remember

Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary is more than a celebration it’s a time capsule of joy, imagination, and legacy. Whether you're reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, there’s no better time to visit the park that started it all.

So pack your mouse ears, charge your phone, and get ready to step into 70 years of Disney magic.