Route 66 isn’t the only American road-trip institution celebrating a birthday.
Disneyland, that ever-evolving realm of magic, wholesome escapism and four-alarm toddler meltdowns, turned 70 years old in 2025. If you missed the initial party, not to worry – like a true Orange County debutante, the park is keeping the celebration going with multiple birthday fêtes extending through the summer, including fan favorites such as the Paint the Night float parade, featuring more than 1.5 million LED lights and characters from Frozen, Toy Story and other beloved movies, running nightly along Main Street, U.S.A. You have until August 9, when Mickey blows out the candles for good.
New at D-Land
If it’s been a few moons since your last visit, make time for these Disney newbies.
Bluey-Maxxing
2026 will bring all things Bluey to Disneyland, as Imagineers scramble to satisfy the insatiable preschool-age demand for the animated Aussie pooch. Bluey’s Best Day Ever! – an interactive mélange of comedic performers, musicians, games and dancing – debuted at Fantasyland Theatre in the spring, along with plentiful food and merch options.
The Mandalorian and Grogu Tie-In
The hotly anticipated sci-fi romp will promptly manifest at the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride on May 22, 2026 in the guise of an all-new interactive mission inspired by the movie.
Soarin’ Across America
Honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary, this limited-time overlay of the IMAX-boosted Soarin’ Around the World ride at Disney California Adventure invites guest to take a simulated aerial ride over iconic American landscapes and cityscapes, from the Grand Canyon to New York City.
Trader Sam’s Reboot
If you know, you know. Long a cult favorite at the Disneyland Hotel – after a day in the park with the kids, you need that Mai Tai, man – this tiki bar and Polynesian restaurant is getting a cosmetic upgrade. Anticipated re-opening: late May.
