The Disneyland California Parade is one of the most iconic and beloved attractions at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California.
This daily parade has entertained guests since 1996 with its lively music, colorful floats and beloved Disney characters.
The parade brings classic Disney stories and films to life as it makes its way down Main Street USA and through the park.
It features elaborate floats highlighting popular Disney movies like The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, and more.
In addition to the impressive floats, the parade includes dancers, Disney characters waving and interacting with guests, and lively choreographed routines.
With floats reaching up to 35 feet tall and a total parade length spanning over 1,200 feet, the Disneyland Parade is truly a magnificent production.
The music, which includes both classic Disney songs and original compositions, is upbeat and designed to energize spectators.
Families with young children especially appreciate seeing iconic characters like Mickey, Minne, and all their pals dancing and waving during the festive promenade.
Stars of the Disneyland California Parade
Some of the major stars featured on floats or walking along the parade route include:
Mickey Mouse and Friends: No Disney parade would be complete without Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy and Goofy making an appearance.
This classic Disney group leads the way down the parade route with fun and hijinks.
Anna and Elsa from Frozen: The beloved Frozen sisters have their elaborate float featuring flurries of artificial snow and the icy mountain peaks of Arendelle.
Ariel from The Little Mermaid: Ariel perches atop a giant seashell float filled with jumping dolphins, dancing fish and crashing waves.
Belle and Beast from Beauty and the Beast: Belle dances around the Enchanted Rose while the Beast looks on from a balcony of his castle, which also includes dancing cutlery.
Toy Story Characters: Buzz Lightyear soars overhead on a giant rocket float while Woody and Jessie dance below with toy soldiers and familiar playthings.
Disneyland California Parade Schedule
There are parades almost every day throughout the years.
From February 2, 2024, the Magic Returns Parade is scheduled to enchant all visitors.
This parade starts at 5.30 pm and lasts 20 minutes.
On some days, the parade also happens at 3 pm.
We recommend you check the official website before you visit since the schedule is subject to change.
You can also enjoy seasonal parades like Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession from 23 January to 18 February at 12.45 pm, 2.30 pm and 5 pm.
What to Expect during the Disneyland California Parade
The Disneyland California Parade brings over 90 performers, floats and lively music.
The most exciting part of the parades is the elaborate floats.
Some floats reach over two stories tall and feature vibrant colors, lights, moving parts and characters from the celebrated Disney film it represents.
Crowd favorites include the Finding Nemo float with real water effects and puppeteer-guided sea creatures.
These floats move in rhythm to the classic Disney soundtrack.
Whether it’s familiar Disney tunes or an original parade composition, the music is designed to be upbeat, energetic and family-friendly.
“Baroque Hoedown” serves as the parade’s main theme song.
Disney characters make their way down the parade route waving, dancing, playing instruments and engaging with the crowd.
Be ready for character sightings and hugs from Mickey, Minnie and all their pals.
Along with the characters, you can also see skilled dancers in colorful costumes add an element of street performance to the parade with their choreographed routines.
Disney’s Imagineers have integrated surprises into the parade floats and routines, including bubbles, confetti bursts, artificial snow and more.
The parade may last 20 to 30 minutes, but the dazzling grand finale float with Mickey and Tinker Bell is truly the highlight.
If you are visiting Disneyland California, catch the “Magic Happens” parade, which is returning on February 2.
There are also seasonal parades like the Frightfully Fun Parade and Mulan’s Lunar New Year procession.
Best Spots to Watch the Disneyland California Parade
With so many great viewing areas, it can be tricky to decide on the perfect spot to watch the Disneyland parade.
Here are some top recommendations:
Main Street USA: Any spot on Main Street provides the iconic backdrop of the Disneyland Train Station and Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Stand close to the rope on the edge for high fives from characters.
Parade Route: Stake out a front-row curbside spot anywhere along the rope line of the parade route.
This includes spots near It’s a Small World, the Matterhorn or Town Square for close-up views of floats and performers.
Fantasyland: Watch from this elevated land behind the Matterhorn’s waterfall for a unique view.
You can see down into the parade route below without crowds blocking.
Small World Mall: An often overlooked viewing spot is to stand between the Matterhorn and It’s a Small World attraction.
This part falls along the parade route for a spacious, less crowded experience.
Sleeping Beauty Castle West: Catch glimpses of the full parade rounding the bend in front of the castle with this viewpoint located west of the iconic landmark.
Curbside Dining: Book prix fixe lunch or dinner at Plaza Inn or Blue Bayou.
These restaurants directly border the parade route for dining while watching all the pageantry pass right by your table.
FAQs on Disneyland California Parade
1. What time does the Disneyland California Parade start?
The Magic Return Parade is scheduled at 5.30 pm from 2 February 2024. Some days, the parade has an extra schedule at 3 pm.
2. How long is the Disneyland California Parade?
On average, parades last around 20 to 30 minutes.
3. Are there designated viewing areas for the Disneyland California Parade?
Disneyland typically designates specific areas along the parade route for optimal viewing. Some restaurants offer tables with parade views, while attractions provide access to rooftops to enjoy the parade.
4. Can I reserve seats for the Disneyland California Parade?
While Disneyland doesn’t usually offer seat reservations for the parade, special packages or events may include reserved seating. Some dining packages or VIP experiences might provide an enhanced parade viewing experience.
5. Are there parades every day at Disneyland California?
Disneyland California typically features parades daily, but the specific parades may vary. It’s advisable to check the daily entertainment schedule on the official Disneyland website or consult the park map upon arrival.
6. Can I take photos with characters during the Disneyland California Parade?
While characters often participate in the parade, stopping for individual photos might not be possible due to the continuous flow of the event. However, there are designated character meet-and-greet locations throughout the park to click pictures.
7. What happens in case of bad weather during the Disneyland California Parade?
During bad weather, Disneyland may modify or cancel outdoor performances, including parades, to ensure the safety of guests and performers.
8. Is there an additional cost to attend the Disneyland California Parade?
There is no separate cost to attend the Disneyland California Parade.
9. Can I bring food and drinks to enjoy during the Disneyland California Parade?
While Disneyland encourages guests to enjoy food and beverages available within the park, there are guidelines on bringing outside food and drinks. Generally, guests are allowed to bring small snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. However, large coolers or meals from external sources are not permitted. It’s essential to be mindful of the park’s cleanliness and follow its policies on food consumption. Finding a suitable spot to enjoy a snack during the parade is feasible. Still, guests should consider the surroundings and dispose of trash appropriately to maintain the magical atmosphere.
10. Are there special parades or events during holidays at Disneyland California?
Disneyland California often hosts special parades and events during holidays and seasonal celebrations. These parades happen during the Lunar New Year, Halloween, Christmas and New Year.
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