The beloved Paint the Night Electrical Parade has made its much-anticipated return to Disneyland as part of the ongoing 70th anniversary celebrations. This enchanting spectacle is a highlight for many fans, and there’s so much to discover!
The parade kicks off with its iconic drum float, which has received a fresh update featuring the special 70th anniversary logo. In this opening float, audiences can see an array of classic characters including Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, and her fairy friends—Rosetta, Silvermist, and Iridessa. Notably, Rosetta sports a brand new costume design, and many performers have once again donned their illuminated wings that add to the magic of the night.
Tinker Bell herself debuted a new outfit during the parade’s return last year, enhancing her magical presence as she flits about.
Next up is the Monsters, Inc. Dance Party float, where Sulley and Mike come alive as they groove atop a float adorned with whimsical spinning doors, captivating both children and adults alike.
Following that is the Cars Electric Roadway Jam, led by none other than Lightning McQueen. The cast of performers has also been treated to updated costumes, ensuring they stand out in this vibrant segment. Accompanying Lightning are dancers and Mack, who features large LED screens that light up the night sky. Interestingly, DJ has returned with some slight modifications after missing from several performances leading up to the holiday season.
The Little Mermaid Electric Watercolors float brings its own charm, with subtle design changes to the coral performer costumes. Ariel takes center stage, flanked by Flounder and a towering figure of King Triton holding Sebastian, although Ariel's wig no longer lights up, a minor change that doesn’t diminish her allure.
As we move to the Toy Story Electric Rodeo unit, Jessie leads a group of cowgirl dancers adorned in newly designed outfits. Woody and Buzz join the fun on a delightful Slinky Dog float, while the little green aliens whirl around in their own spinning spaceship, adding a playful touch to the parade.
In the Candlelight Dreams segment, beloved princesses Belle, Rapunzel, and Cinderella appear, accompanied by dove dancers wearing fresh costumes. For the first time since 2018, Belle’s crown is aglow with lights, adding a new sparkle to her royal ensemble.
The Frozen Fractals unit makes a return after being absent in 2018, featuring Anna and Elsa on a float inspired by Elsa’s ice palace. Olaf, along with snowy trees, completes this picturesque scene, with no significant changes made to the float itself.
Finally, the parade concludes with Mickey’s Lightastic Finale, where Minnie, Goofy, and Donald ride on individual small floats. Mickey himself leads the final float, adorned with an array of dazzling colors, while the enchanting tune "When Can I See You Again?" by Owl City fills the air. Although Mickey's costume appears unchanged, it exudes a sense of freshness, suggesting some updates may have been made.
For those eager to catch the magic, the Paint the Night Electrical Parade initially premiered at Disneyland Park in 2015, in celebration of the resort’s 60th anniversary. It took inspiration from a similar parade that debuted at Hong Kong Disneyland in 2014 before concluding in 2020. After its initial run ended in 2017, the parade continued at Disney California Adventure throughout 2018 and returned with exciting updates in May 2025, just in time for Disneyland’s 70th anniversary.
The parade will dazzle guests twice nightly at 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. from Fridays to Sundays, while Mondays through Thursdays will feature a single performance at 8:30 p.m. Excluding special events, guests can enjoy the parade every day of the week.
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