From Sweethearts to “Star Wars,” the post-sundown celebrations do glitter.
What to KnowDisneyland After Dark nightsFive themes will flower at the Anaheim theme park in 2026The starlit celebrations will include Sweethearts’ Nite, 70 Years of Favorites, Disney Channel Nite, Star Wars Nite, and Pride NiteThe evening events traditional happen over the first few months of the year; Sweethearts’ Nite begins the series on Jan. 22, 20269 p.m. to 1 a.m.Disneyland After Dark is not included with the traditional park ticket; note that a separate ticket is requiredSweethearts’ Nite tickets go on sale to the general public Dec. 11, while Magic Key holders can purchase Dec. 10 (and Inspire Key holders can buy their tickets Dec. 9)
Just about every visitor to Disneyland Park enters with a general theme in mind, a loosely imagined plan for their day that includes a grouping of things they’d like to do, eat, and accomplish.
This plan might include visiting every dark ride, or trying out every coaster, or eating every treat that features caramel, peppermint, or both.
But there are a few Disneyland events that are specifically and sensationally themed, and they occur in those magical hours when light, shimmer, and glow illuminate The Happiest Place on Earth.
Dubbed Disneyland After Dark, the special nights, or “Nites,” if you please, add color and character to the first part of the theme park’s annual calendar.
That means the separately ticketed evenings launch in January, and the lovey-and-dovey-est celebration leads the way: Sweethearts’ Nite, which was originally a happening that occurred around Valentine’s Day but now pops up over several January and February nights.
The first one is Jan. 22, and tickets go on sale to the general public Dec. 11, with Magic Key holders getting a crack at tickets a day or two earlier, depending on their Key types.
While Sweethearts’ Nite will have the classic touches fans love, including character photo spots and themed merchandise, there are new offerings.
The debuting delights include the “Celebrate Love Cavalcade” (head to Main Street, U.S.A. for the heartsy happening) and “Once Upon a Dream — A Musical Journey Through the Disney Songbook,” a songful show featuring cameos by Disney’s iconic royals.
There are four more Disneyland After Dark events ahead in 2026, with 70 Years of Favorites, Disney Channel Nite, Star Wars Nite, and Pride Nite on the celebratory schedule.
Keep an eye on the official Disney Parks Blog for details and announcements about both Sweethearts’ Nite and the four festive themes set to roll out through June.