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Los Angeles Times
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
What's new at SoCal theme parks this summer — from lively night shows to ‘Jaws' doughnuts
Summer in SoCal doesn't just mean beaches or bleachers. It's an ideal, albeit crowded, time to visit one of our many theme parks. No matter which park you choose, there's a water ride or two to cool you off and a host of entertainment options. The Disneyland Resort is in the midst of a major anniversary, and Knott's Berry Farm brings back a favorite must-see — or must-play, rather — summer staple. Six Flags Magic Mountain is introducing more theatrics, and Universal Studios Hollywood has made some refreshing tweaks to one of its classic attractions (hint: bring a poncho). Here's a look at the summer highlights at each park. The Disneyland Resort is celebrating a major birthday this July 17, although the party started early in May. Much of the key entertainment happens in the evening. The new 'World of Color Happiness!' at Disney California Adventure brings water-based projection effects to the park's lagoon, alongside a storyline centered on the characters of 'Inside Out.' Disneyland has brought back the lively, LED-driven parade that is 'Paint the Night,' an upbeat and festive jolt of energy that serves as an exclamation point on a day at the park. If fireworks are more to your liking, 'Wondrous Journeys' illuminates the skies above Walt Disney's original Magic Kingdom via a show that serves as an ode to the company's century of animation achievements. Nostalgia is always an invited guest at a Disneyland party, and those who want to relive memories of years spent at the park should not miss 'Tapestry of Happiness,' a five-minute love letter to Disneyland that uses the facade of It's a Small World as a canvas while nodding to the artistry of Mary Blair, the Disney legend responsible for much of the look and tone of the ride whose building the show graces. And coming July 17 will be a show that resurrects Disney as an audio-animatronic, temporarily displacing 'Great Moments of Mr. Lincoln' at the Main Street Opera House. Disney artisans promise that the robotic figure will be one of its most lifelike to date. There are treats galore and even food offerings that nod to Disneyland's past (look for the decadent apple pancake rolls). The birthday festivities run into next year, although some offerings will pause for Halloween and holiday programming. No matter the park, the key touchstones of great theme park theatrics are similar. Expect a pun or two and some heightened emotions — and don't be surprised if there's tinge of hokeyness. But in a good way. Like an actor approaching you with a bucket of water and asking, politely, if you would like it dumped on your head. Or another excitedly talking you into having a curly mustache painted on your face. Knott's Berry Farm's now-annual summer offering 'Ghost Town Alive!' turns all of the park's ol' West area into a stage, and it's a hoot. 'Ghost Town Alive!' is designed to be played. Approach, for instance, the post office in the fictional town of Calico, and you may be handed a package to deliver — only now you're caught up in randomly weird storyline. The narrative has some key beats, but daily shenanigans are often improv-based, and you may find yourself robbing a bank, working as a matchmaker or taking part in a facial hair contest. Every day in 'Ghost Town Alive!' is a little different. If you're willing to put yourself out there, don't be surprised if you forget there are coasters to ride, as 'Ghost Town Alive!' is a gateway to an alternative reality where wackiness reigns. While in Calico, don't miss the summer show 'Miss Cameo Kate's Western Burle-Q- Revue' at the Bird Cage Theatre. It's a 20-minute cabaret-style performance, complete with a torch song and a cancan finale, the latter just a tad risqué. In the evening, Knott's Summer Nights programming brings live music to an assortment of lands. While acts may vary, expect an emphasis on acoustic, rockabilly and Western stylings spread across six stages, turning the park into a mini live music venue. The Valencia coaster park this summer is leaning into superhero properties. The likes of Batman, Superman, Catwoman, the Joker and more are taking part in an evening show that marries dance parties, stunt shows and audience participation. Its 'DC Heroes and Villains Fest' runs weekends throughout the summer beginning June 20, with festivities starting at 5 p.m. There's a plot each night, and it centers on villains trying to spoil a statue dedication to Batman. Audiences are said to be able to align with heroes or villains to see who has control of Gotham City each evening. Expect a stunt show finish and plenty of silliness, such as a dad joke or strength contests. Dance events will center on Catwoman, the Joker and Harley Quinn, nonheroes who will be trying to woo guests with family-friendly entertainment. While 'DC Heroes and Villains Fest' had yet to begin at the time of writing, Magic Mountain is hoping for a theater-heavy experience. 'A lot of my team comes from New York, the Broadway side,' Mike Ostrom, manager of entertainment and events for the park, told immersive podcast No Proscenium. 'So we're trying to bring a lot of theatrical elements and story arc and all those things that involve the crowd, the participants, to really get involved in what they're seeing.' Jurassic World — The Ride is already an attraction designed to get you soaked. This summer, however, Universal Studios has made the ride even wetter, thanks to additional dinosaurs and new geysers. Look for four additional Dilophosaurus figures — those mid-size dinos with ornate, skull-like fans surrounding their head — throughout the ride. Otherwise known as 'spitters,' they do exactly that — spit water at guests in boats. Additionally, once the boat lands after the ride's 84-foot drop, guests will be welcomed with a loud roar and an explosion of new water geysers. Ponchos are recommended. The additions are part of what Universal is calling Mega Movie Summer. The event focuses on treats themed to 'Jaws,' 'Back to the Future' and more — look for a giant doughnut with a shark bite taken out of it, or relax with a lobster roll — as well as photo opportunities and character meet-and-greets. For example, a 'Jaws' photo spot features the return of the park's hanging shark and a chance to meet actors portraying shark hunter Quint and Amity police chief Brody. A 'Back to the Future' location has the DeLorean time machine and actors inhabiting the roles of Marty McFly and Doc Brown as well as an appearance from canine companion Einstein. Once Universal extends its hours on June 28, a projection show will take over Hogwarts Castle in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Elsewhere, characters from 'Wicked' continue to meet guests, and Universal has introduced a 730-pound sculpted Toothless figure from 'How to Train Your Dragon.'
Buzz Feed
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Disneyland 70th Anniversary Everything New At The Park And Worth Doing
Hi, everyone! We're Brian and Crystal, and we're massive fans of all things Disney, but especially the Disney parks. So when Disney invited us to join them for the celebration for Disneyland's 70th anniversary, we practically zipped down Main Street, U.S.A. faster than you can say "bibbidy-bobbidy-boo." From a dazzling new projection show to the return of a fan-favorite parade, we got to check out what The Happiest Place on Earth has going on for its milestone anniversary. Now, in case you're wondering, the 70th anniversary celebration is just getting started! The celebration runs all the way through summer 2026, with Disneyland's big birthday bash happening on July 17. Okay, now let's get to what you clicked into this post for: The new things coming to the park and our thoughts! Food, glorious food! Yep, there's a whole lineup of new treats and eats to celebrate Disneyland's 70th anniversary. We tried a bunch of them (for research, of course) — and you can check out our full review right here. Spoiler alert: both Crystal and I agree that the Dole Whip Pineapple Bundt Cake is a standout that you shouldn't miss!!! "The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade," a brand new, twice-daily mini-parade that features Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, Pluto, and lots of other Disney characters dancing along the parade route. The cavalcade is cute and just the right amount of high energy to get us into the spirit. But the real showstoppers? Duffy and ShellieMay! If you're not familiar, they're two ultra-cute teddy bear characters who are massive celebrities at the Asian Disney Parks — we're talking longer photo lines than Mickey levels of fame. They're a rare sight Stateside, so spotting them in the cavalcade felt like a delightful little Disney Easter egg. Another new addition for the 70th anniversary is "Tapestry of Happiness," a whimsical nighttime projection show that is displayed on the facade of It's a Small World. Illustrated in the iconic style of Disney legend Mary Blair, the show is a wonderful tribute to the park's past and present. Woven together through vibrant visuals, the show incorporates beloved characters, classic attractions, and even a few long-lost favorites from throughout the park's seven-decade history. I think we both thought the show, while short (at just 5 minutes), was a standout and worth lining up for (especially if you're a Disneyland fan because it's full of little Easter eggs). You can watch the show here if you're curious. Returning for the 70th is the "Paint the Night Parade," which, if you don't know what it is, the best way I can describe it is a very souped-up "Main Street Electrical Parade." The parade was first introduced at Disneyland for its 60th anniversary, and since then, it has only been revived a handful of times. Even if parades aren't usually your thing, this one's totally worth a watch because it's a visual feast of colors and lights, with truly impressive large floats. Plus, it's at night, so you don't have to wait in the sun! Also returning for the 70th anniversary celebration is the "Wondrous Journeys" nighttime spectacular. A fireworks and projection show that originally debuted in 2023 as part of the Disney100 celebration. If you haven't seen it, the show is a tribute to Walt Disney Animation and features scenes and characters from every animated film from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to Wish. So, yup, no Pixar or live-action movies are featured in it. We'd both seen it before and were thrilled to see it make a comeback — it's easily one of the best fireworks and projection shows Disneyland's done in a while, especially when it comes to storytelling. And if staking out a spot on Main Street, U.S.A. isn't your vibe, good news: you can catch the projections over at Rivers of America or on the facade of It's a Small World for a more low-key (but still magical) viewing experience. The Disneyland Resort's 70th celebration is already going strong, with plenty of magic happening ahead of the big anniversary on July 17 and throughout the next year. Want in on the fun? Head over to Disneyland's site for all the ticket details and info.
USA Today
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Disneyland's 70th anniversary: A look at the new entertainment, celebration outfits
Disneyland's 70th anniversary: A look at the new entertainment, celebration outfits Show Caption Hide Caption Disneyland offering special anniversary ticket offer Disneyland is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, leading to a handful of discounts and deals to celebrate the occasion. Fox - LA Disneyland Resort is celebrating its 70th anniversary with year-long festivities starting Friday. New entertainment includes the "Celebrate Happy Cavalcade," "Tapestry of Happiness" projection show, and "World of Color Happiness!" nighttime spectacular. Returning favorites include the "Paint the Night" parade and "Wondrous Journeys" fireworks show. ANAHEIM, Calif. – When Walt Disney first welcomed guests to his happy place in 1955, he told them, 'Disneyland is your land.' Over the past 70 years, many longtime guests have made it so, returning to the Southern California resort for personal milestones including birthdays and engagements, as well as everyday occasions like the latest food or festival entertainment. Now, it's Disneyland's turn to celebrate. The resort's 70th anniversary festivities kick off Friday with new experiences and returning favorites that feel like a love letter to existing fans. It's also an invitation for first timers to discover why Disneyland is called the Happiest Place on Earth and to make it their own. Here's what's in store for the yearlong celebration. New 70th anniversary entertainment, outfits and more The theme of the 70th anniversary is Celebrate Happy and everything about it – from its infectiously bubbly and seemingly ubiquitous theme song performed by the Jonas Brothers to its bright blue, pink and purple decor – is designed to delight. 'We wanted this to be the best birthday party ever and we want all of you to celebrate with us,' David Caranci, manager, Creative Development for Walt Disney Imagineering, said during a preview USA TODAY attended earlier this week. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends have vibrant new party outfits just for the occasion, which guests can see in person during meet and greets and in the new Celebrate Happy Cavalcade at Disneyland Park. That mini parade is also where guests can spot Duffy the Disney Bear and his friend Shellie May, who typically only appear in Disney's parks in Asia. Duffy is marking his 20th anniversary at Disney parks and it's ShellieMay's first major appearance at Disneyland. At night, guests can see a new projection show called Tapestry of Happiness on the facade of 'it's a small world" at Disneyland. It's inspired in the artistic style of Disney Legend Mary Blair. On the park's actual anniversary date, July 17, a new show called Walt Disney – A Magical Life will debut at Disneyland's Main Street Opera House. It will feature Disney's first audio-animatronic of Walt Disney. Other Main Street U.S.A. experiences and a new "it's a small world verse" will also premiere July 17. Story continues below. 'We've got the big spectaculars, we've got the parades, but we've also got those moments that you can experience and have just a little bit of magic every night,' said Jennifer McGill, executive producer for Disney Live Entertainment. The latter is the name of a short projection show at Disney California Adventure (DCA). Multiple times each night, Tinker Bell will appear to transform Carthay Circle into Sleeping Beauty Castle during Celebrate Happy: A Little Bit of Magic Every Night. DCA's big new nighttime spectacular is called World of Color Happiness! It's the seventh full-length iteration of World of Color and anchored by characters from the 'Inside Out' franchise. "If you don't leave that show humming, dancing, moving feeling all the wonderful emotions, I'll be very surprised,' McGill said. Guests will want to arrive early for a good viewing spot because the show is preceded by a new pre-show starring the Muppets, who are also celebrating their 70th anniversary. Don't leave without trying Toy Story Mania, which has a special anniversary overlay. Guests can earn extra points by shooting at '70' targets throughout the attraction. Throughout the resort, including at Downtown Disney District, guests will also find more than 70 new food and beverage offerings, four different collections of anniversary merchandise and various photo backdrops to mark their visit. Returning Disneyland favorites Some of those anniversary food and beverage offerings are inspired by past park menu items. 'We're really excited to have some of these nostalgic classics back in the parks,' said Disneyland Chef Steven Medina, pointing to opening day dishes like banana splits and Apple Pancake Rolls on a display table. 'And can't talk about Disney history with food without talking about chili. You know Walt was very notoriously famous for loving the chili here in the parks, so we brought those in two different ways.' One is a W.E.D. Chil Cheese Baked Potato, named after Walter Elias Disney. The other is a Chili Cheese Corn Dog coated in corn chips. Other nostalgic items include a Dancing Shimmering Lights drink, which is a nod to Disneyland's Videopolis area in the 1980s, and a Hook's Galley Tuna Melt, which throws back to the park's early era Chicken of the Sea Pirate Ship and Restaurant. Though not quite as old, Disney California Adventure is welcoming back Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!, a daytime parade, which debuted last year. It features characters from various Pixar films including 'Turning Red,' 'Toy Story' and 'Monsters, Inc.' Disneyland is bringing back one its most popular nighttime parades, Paint the Night, which debuted during the park's 60th anniversary celebration. The park is also reviving its beloved nighttime spectacular Wondrous Journeys, which highlights 60 Disney Animation films. 'One of the things that I think is really special about the 70th is that we have a lot of new exciting offerings, but we also have listened to the fans, and we are bringing back those classics that not only our guests but our cast members truly, truly love," McGill said. Story continues below. What else is happening across Disneyland There's lots more happening across the resort that isn't tied to the the 70th celebration. On Friday, Disney California Adventure debuted a new show called Disney Junior: Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! It's primarily geared toward families with young children, but grownups may enjoy it as much as kids. 'I really wanted to make sure that this show was for the entire family,' said show director David Underwood. 'Our show really feels like mini musical.' The premise is Mickey and Minnie are throwing a party, but their friends don't show up, so they go out to find them. 'And this kind of is where the fun begins,' Underwood said. There's singing, dancing, bubbles and of course the Hot Dog Dance so synonymous with the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Pixar Pals Playtime Party and Stitch's Interplanetary Beach Party Blast will return to Disneyland Park on May 23. Pride Nite returns in June. Disney Jr. Let's Play! Party will arrive at DCA and Downtown Disney this summer. Halloween Time, Plaza de la Familia and Holidays at the Disneyland Resort return later this year. Through it all, the resort continues to offer the staples that have endeared it with 70 years of guests: an escape from the worries of the world outside, a place to feel like a kid again, and a little bit of magic courtesy of cast members, as Disney fans have shared with USA TODAY. The reporter on this story received access from Disney. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content. (This story has been updated to add a photo.)
