Close Banner
GET MY TICKETS
Home / Blog / Expert Tips & Tricks / Tips & Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event

Tips & Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event

Inside This Post

If the Disneyland 70th Anniversary Celebration is making you nostalgic for past Disneyland events and entertainment that no longer exists, then we have the perfect party for you. Even if you've only heard the legends and wish you could have experienced Videopolis in the '80s or "Woody's Round Up" in the late '90s to early '00s, here is your chance. The 70 Years of Favorites Disneyland After Dark Nite is a separately-ticketed event that brings back beloved entertainment, iconic characters, must-try eats and more. It's inspired by seven incredible decades of Disneyland Resort history. Don't miss this party that's been 70 years in the making. Here's everything to know about 70 Years of Favorites Nite in 2026. We'll went the first night, so all you second-night visitors can get the "undercover" scoop.

FAQs

  • What is 70 Years of Favorites? 70 Years of Favorites is a separately-ticketed Disneyland After Dark event celebrating seven decades of Disneyland Resort and offerings over the years.
  • When is 70 Years of Favorites? 70 Years of Favorites takes place March 3 and 5, 2026, after Disneyland Park closes for the day.
  • How do I buy tickets? Tickets are on sale now from Disneyland.com on the special events page.
  • What are the event hours? The official event is from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., but you can enter the park as early as 6 p.m. The park closes to daytime guests at 8 p.m. Event food often opens at 8 p.m. and rides remain open for party guests during that period as well.

All the Details About 70 years of Favorites Nite at Disneyland - Projection on Small World

Overview of 70 Years of Favorites Nite

70 Years of Favorites Disneyland After Dark Event - Disneyland After Dark 2026 events

As Cher might sing, "If I could turn back time..." well, we've found a way. You can explore 70 years of Disneyland Park favorites. But like Cinderella's magical night at the ball, this four-hour party will come to an end quickly. That means you'll need to know what to do when and use your time wisely.

70 Years of Favorites is one of five themes for Disneyland After Dark in 2026. This one may have nostalgic vibes that compare to past throwback themes such as '80s Nite, '90s Nite, Throwback Nite and Grad Nite.

If you've never been to an After Dark event, the park is aglow in custom projections. For this event, every decade will be represented with unforgettable Disney characters, shows and attractions.

70 Years of Favorites Tickets and Dates

More Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Credentials

70 Years of Favorites takes place two special nights in 2026:

  • Tuesday, March 3
  • Thursday, March 5

The party officially runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Party guests can enter the park three hours early, beginning at 6 p.m. During that time, daytime guests and party guests will mix. The park officially closes at 8 p.m. After that point, people need to show their credentials and wristband to move about the park. Day guests will be encouraged to move toward the exits. Party food usually opens early, around 8 p.m., so our advice is to eat early. Rides are open during that time.

Arrival

You'll receive a lanyard, wristband and event map when you enter the park. Special gates are marked for the special event, and people tend to line up early.

In-Park Check-in

If you hoppen to have a daytime ticket, you do not need to exit the park and re-enter the park for the party. You can check in inside the park. The check-in area is in the tunnel to Galaxy's Edge on the side closest to Fantasyland. You'll pick up your wristband, lanyard and map, allowing you to stay in the park after it closes.

BOOK NOW AND SAVE UP TO 30% on select stays at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the Disneyland Hotel, Pixar Place Hotel or the Villas at Disneyland Hotel through Sept. 8, 2026. Plus, you can secure your Disneyland hotel reservation for a refundable $200 deposit today, and pay the remainder 30 days prior to check-in!

Tickets

Tickets went on sale Dec. 11, 2026. Most After Dark events do sell out, so purchase early. As of the week of the event, both days are still available, so get those tickets! You can purchase through the Disneyland site.

Tickets cost $159 for either night. You do not need to make a park reservation for these tickets. You also do not need Lightning Lane Multi Pass. (It's not available for party tickets.) Lines are so short!

We get a lot of questions about tickets. Only buy from Disney directly. You can not resell Disneyland After Dark tickets, so do not buy from people you do not know, and be aware of potential scams for After Dark events (and Oogie Boogie Bash tickets).

If, however, you could not attend and wanted a family member or friend to use your ticket instead, that is fine. As soon as a person uses a ticket to enter the park, their photo is taken and attached to the ticket. They are the only ones who can use that ticket, no matter what the name on the ticket says.

Characters and Photo Locations at 70 Years of Favorites

More Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Merlin

Meet rare characters and take photos in themed photo scenes. We saw a few of these characters and photo ops at 90's Nite. Here are the character encounters and where to find them:

Main Street, U.S.A.

70 Years of Favorites Disneyland After Dark Event - Mickey Mouse posing with guest

  • Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in Town Square

Fantasyland

70 Years of Favorites Disneyland After Dark Event - Flik and Atta

  • Flik and Princess Atta between Pixie Hollow and Matterhorn Bobsleds
  • Esmeralda across from Red Rose Taverne
  • Mary Poppins and Bert (these two wander and ride the carousel)
  • Merlin at The Sword in the Stone (this line gets very long, so this is one we would hop in before party time kicks off)
  • Peter Pan and Wendy wander

Bayou Country 

70 Years of Favorites Disneyland After Dark Event - Rabbit posing with guest

  • Friends from Winnie the Pooh
  • Friends from Princess and the Frog (Tiana in her explorer outfit or Louis)

Mickey's Toontown 

More Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Scrooge McDuck and Hewey Dewey and Louie

  • Scrooge McDuck at fountain (no line)
  • Hewey, Dewey and Louie at fountain (no line)
  • Chip and Dale in their Rescue Rangers outfits by Roger Rabbit with a line

Adventureland 

  • Baloo and King Louie at the side of the Enchanted Tiki Room
  • Aladdin, Princess Jasmine and Abu

Frontierland

  • Miguel across from Golden Horseshoe
  • Pocahontas and Meeko
  • Woody and Jessie leading line dancing at Golden Horseshoe

New Orleans Square 

  • Fantasmic! Monkeys near Haunted Mansion

Tomorrowland

  • "Mother" and "Father" from Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress at Launch Bay (walk-through line that keeps moving)
  • R2-D2 and BB-8 (walk-through line that keeps moving)

Get ready to pose in front of fun backdrops or with props that feature:

More Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Pizza Planet Truck

  • Pizza Planet Truck in Tomorrowland
  • 70 Years of Favorites Town Square
  • Haunted Mansion Caretaker Lantern near Haunted Mansion (prop you hold)
  • The Disneyland Skyway at Frontierland entrance to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge
  • Mad T Party in Tomorrowland
  • Club Buzz in Tomorrowland
  • Bugs from "a bug's land" between Pixie Hollow and Matterhorn Bobsleds
  • Aladdin's Royal Caravan in Fantasyland at "small world" Promenade
  • Hercules Victory Parade in Fantasyland at "small world" Promenade
  • Main Street Electrical Parade in Fantasyland in front of "it's a small world"
  • Gummi Bears in Mickey's Toontown

All your PhotoPass downloads from the night are included. As soon as you can, scan the PhotoPass code on your wristband into the Disneyland app. Then, with a quick scan of your band after each photo stop, the photos will appear in your app. You have 45 days to download them.

70 Years of Favorites Nite Attire

70 Years of Favorites Disneyland After Dark Event - People dressed for Throwback Nite

Basically, wear what you want. At Disneyland, you do you! Dress in layers to stay warm and wear comfortable shoes.

However, if you want to have a little fun with your outfit, you can dress in a Disney retro costume or outfit. (What's your favorite decade or former attraction?) Many people love going to Disneyland After Dark parties because they can dress up. It makes it fun to connect with other park guests and take photos in the park.

Arrive in style, sporting the coolest attire around for this party of the past! Guests can dress up or down for this event, but must keep in mind Disney's specific costume guidelines when putting an ensemble together. For the entire list of costume guidelines, visit Disneyland's website.

Costume Guidelines

  • Costumes may not reach or drag on the ground (e.g., full-length dresses).
  • Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent.
  • All guests may dress as their favorite character, but may not pose for pictures or sign autographs for other guests.
  • Costumes may not contain any items that resemble (or could easily be mistaken for) an actual weapon.
  • Costumes may not contain sharp/pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another guest.
  • Layered costumes or props surrounding the entire body are strongly discouraged and may be subject to additional security screening.

For Guests Ages 13 and Under:

  • Costumes may be worn, as well as some masks, as long as the entire face isn’t covered and the eyes are visible.

For Guests Ages 14 and Older:

  • For adults and teens, keep safety and good judgment in mind and adhere to the following guidelines.
  • Capes cannot go below the waist.
  • Themed T-shirts, blouses, sweatshirts and hats are permitted.
  • Acceptable accessories include transparent wings, plastic light sabers, toy swords and tutus.
  • Headwear may not cover the face.
  • No masks of any kind, except for medical purposes.

These rules only apply during event hours (and mix-in time when you're allowed to enter the park three hours early for the event). Standard theme park attire rules apply during all other times. All rules, regulations and guidelines are subject to change without notice. If you don't adhere to the guidelines, Disney may remove you from the event, unless you can modify the costume to meet the above standards.

Entertainment at 70 Years of Favorites

We are still waiting for all the entertainment. Until then, here are a few things to look forward to.

“Sounds of Magic” at Rivers of America

70 Years of Favorites Disneyland After Dark Event - Sounds of Magic float

This riverfront serenade features vocalists who perform favorite songs from past Disneyland musical shows. The performers float down the Rivers of America on a raft multiple times throughout the night, singing tunes from various decades of Disneyland entertainment, including “Animazement – The Musical,” “Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee,” “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion” and “Tale of the Lion King.”

Showtimes are 9:15 p.m., 10:15 p.m., 11:15 p.m. and 12:15 a.m. Make sure to arrive on-time for these awesome, mini performances, as they are short.

Line Dancing at The Golden Horseshoe

70 Years of Favorites Disneyland After Dark Event - Line Dancing

Hey Howdy Hey! Join a toe-tapping tribute to Woody's Round Up in Frontierland's most iconic venue, where music, characters and western fun come together in a rootin', tootin' good time. And guess who leads the dancing – Woody and Jessie! Showtimes are 9 p.m., 10 p.m., 11 p.m. and 12 a.m.

Big Band & Swing Dancing at Royal Theatre in Fantasyland

More Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Big Band and Swing Dancing

Once upon a time (pre-pandemic), all the hepcats gathered here for the swingiest bands around. Now, it’s your chance to spin your partner on the dance floor to a live Big Band! Showtimes are 9 p.m., 10 p.m., 11 p.m. and 12 a.m.

Tapestry of Happiness

All About the Brand-New '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Tapesty of Happiness

Experience this "love letter to Disneyland" projection show on the facade of "it's a small world." This 70th entertainment is also available nightly through Aug. 9, 2026. Showtimes are 9:05 p.m., 10:30 p.m., 11:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m.

Videopolis Dance Party at Tomorrowland Terrace

Be immersed in the neon nostalgia of the '80s as Tomorrowland Terrace transforms into the ultimate throwback dance party, featuring a live DJ, dancers, nonstop '80s hits and iconic retro décor. We loved dancing and singing along at Videopolis during '80s Nite. (However, it was at the Fantasyland Theater during the 90s and 80's Nite.) DJ Richard Blade is spinning all your favorite 80's hits. Showtimes are 9:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m., 11:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m.

Dining at 70 Years of Favorites

You'll find special food and nonalcoholic beverages for sale that night. Our advice is to mobile order them in the morning for pickup between 8 and 9 p.m. That way, you'll secure your items before they sell out or the mobile order windows fill up. And you can use pre-party time to eat. The party flies by faster than you can imagine, so you don't want to spend it standing in food lines.

Here are the event's sips and eats and where you'll find them:

Main Street U.S.A.

More Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Banana Split

  • Banana Split – Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor
  • Mushroom Philly sandwich (plant-based) – Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe
  • Maple Bacon Cinnamon Roll – Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe
  • Birria Mac and Cheese in a Bread Bowl – Refreshment Corner

Adventureland

  • Grilled Tahitian Ribs – Bengal Barbecue

New Orleans Square

More Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Tahitian Punch

  • Tahitian Punch – Harbour Galley (open until 11 p.m.)
  • Birria Mac and Cheese in a Bread Bowl – Harbour Galley (open until 11 p.m.)
  • Mickey-shaped Beignets – Mint Julep Bar and Tiana's Palace

Bayou Country 

  • Gumbo Fries – Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree (open until 12 a.m.)
  • Tahitian Punch – Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree (open until 12 a.m.)

Fantasyland

More Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Poutine Fries

  • Poutine Fries – Red Rose Taverne (open until 12 a.m.)
  • Gaston Brew – Red Rose Taverne (open until 12 a.m.)

Frontierland 

  • Banana Split – The Golden Horseshoe
  • Tahitian Punch – The Golden Horseshoe
  • Gumbo Fries – Stage Door Cafe (open until 12 a.m.)

Tomorrowland

All About the Brand-New '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Philly Plant-based mushroom sandwich

  • Mushroom Philly Sandwich – Galactic Grill (open until 12 a.m.)
  • Tahitian Punch – Galactic Grill (open until 12 a.m.)

Again, we recommend eating before party time.

River Belle Terrace

A new specialty item will be available at River Belle Terrace from 8 to 11 p.m. (last seating at 10:15 p.m., reserve online):

  • Blackened New York Steak and Prawns served with roasted potatoes, heirloom tomatoes, thick bacon, charred peppers and onions

There are a la carte selections, including:

  • Pork Chop
  • Shrimp Lemon Caper Pasta
  • Impossible Meatloaf (plant based)
  • Chocolate Brownie
  • Key Lime Tart
  • Kids Chicken Tenders
  • Kids Shrimp
  • Kids Impossible Meatloaf (plant based)

Dine early so you don't lose valuable party time!

All About the Brand-New '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - 70th Treats

Keep an eye out for other 70th Anniversary Food and Drink items for sale. You can start enjoying those as soon as you enter the park.

Attractions Open During 70 Years of Favorites

More Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Haunted Mansion

One of the best parts of After Dark events is the short attraction lines. We didn't see any line over 5 minutes on our visit! Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is closed during the event.

Closed attractions (you can ride during mix-in time):

  • Tiana's Bayou Adventure
  • Disneyland Railroad
  • Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (closes at 7 p.m.)
  • Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Closing at 12 a.m.:

  • Matterhorn Bobsleds
  • Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage

Merchandise

All About the Brand-New '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event 70 Years Sweatshirt

Find a specialty sweatshirt to commemorate your visit at Star Trader in Tomorrowland and Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A. Girls Crew and Citizen have pop-up trunk shows at the Emporium.

More Details for '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Stoney Clover Ln merch

Star Wars Launch Bay features limited offerings from Stoney Clover Ln., which opens at 4 p.m. for the event. Receive a complimentary button with any purchase. This link to merchandise events is a good place to learn about these things. The event map also has all the details, but people tend to line up early for merchandise.

All About the Brand-New '70 Years of Favorites' Disneyland After Dark Event - Yeti Sipper

There are food novelties for sale for the 70th Anniversary, and they will also be available at the party.

Tips for 70 Years of Favorites

Here are some tips to maximize your time:

  • Arrive early (use those early three hours to visit attractions that close early or to eat).
  • Dress for the weather (it can get chilly or wet).
  • Wear comfortable shoes.
  • Eat a meal early, or eat event-exclusive items between 8 and 9 p.m.
  • Mobile order food for the party in advance (by that morning or early afternoon for pick-up after 8 p.m.). Do not arrive for food until you receive the notification that it is ready. We have found mobile ordering to be slower than usual on party nights.
  • Make a list of your must-see activities in advance, since time flies once the party begins.
  • Hop in line for merch or a must-do party activity before the party starts.
  • Find out if a line to meet a character cuts off before the end of the night, so you do not miss out on your meet-and-greet.
  • If you hoppen to be in a line when the park closes, you can stay in line.
  • Get all of your shopping done early in the evening. The stores all close when the event ends at 1 a.m. and special event souvenirs can sell out extremely quickly (within the first hour or two of the night).
  • Consider staying on-site or in a hotel close by so you can get to bed as soon as possible after the party ends.
  • Get on rides near the end of the night when lots of people start to leave the event, and the lines are short. But keep in mind some lines can get cut early.
  • Access the event guide in the Disneyland app for easy access to all of the important event information.
  • Magic Key holders can stop by the Magic Key destination for a special keepsake.

We hope this helps you maximize time and get the most out of 70 Years of Favorites Nite at Disneyland. If you are looking to save money on Disneyland tickets or hotel stays this spring, your froggy friends at Undercover Tourist have some hoppin' deals!

Related: Your Guide to Disneyland After Dark Parties in 2026

Related: Full Guide to Disneyland Events

Hoppy planning!

 

Written and reviewed by the Undercover Tourist Content Team
View Comments

Leave a comment

About Undercover Tourist

Undercover Tourist is the leading supplier of online discount tickets to Orlando, Florida-area attractions, including Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld® Orlando, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and more.

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

Get the inside scoop on theme park news, planning tips, concert and sports announcements, special offers and much more!

Park Plans

Our step-by-step guides will save you up to 4 hours a day.