If you’re planning a Disneyland Resort vacation in 2026 and want something extra special beyond a traditional park day, Disneyland After Dark events offer an unforgettable after-hours experience. These separately ticketed evenings feature themed entertainment, rare character encounters, specialty food and beverages, exclusive merchandise, and reduced wait times, all inside Disneyland Park.
Taking place on select nights from January through June 2026, these events run from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM, with ticket holders allowed to enter the park as early as 6:00 PM on the day of their event.
Here’s a full look at the 2026 lineup.
What’s Included with a Disneyland After Dark Ticket
Each event ticket includes:
-
Park access beginning at 6:00 PM
-
Event entertainment from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM
-
Unlimited digital Disney PhotoPass downloads from the event
-
A commemorative guide map
-
Access to attractions with typically shorter wait times
-
Event-exclusive food, beverages, and merchandise available for purchase
These events are limited-capacity, creating a more relaxed and immersive atmosphere.
Disneyland After Dark: 70 Years of Favorites
Dates: March 3 and March 5, 2026
This all-new event celebrates seven decades of Disneyland history. Expect nostalgic entertainment, including “Sounds of Magic” serenades near Rivers of America, swing dance parties, and photo opportunities inspired by classic park moments. Guests may also encounter beloved Disney characters from across the decades.
Festival-inspired menu items and themed beverages will reflect the spirit of Disneyland’s heritage.
Disney Channel Nite
Dates: April 12, April 14, and April 16, 2026
Fans of Disney Channel favorites will enjoy themed entertainment inspired by iconic shows and characters. Event highlights include character appearances, high-energy pep rallies inspired by fan-favorite musicals, dance parties, and specialty snacks created just for the evening.
This nostalgic celebration is especially popular with teens, young adults, and millennial guests who grew up with Disney Channel programming.
Star Wars Nite
Dates: April 28, April 30, May 4, and May 6, 2026
Star Wars Nite brings galactic excitement to Disneyland Park with themed entertainment, character appearances, and immersive experiences. Guests can witness the March of the First Order, encounter iconic characters from across the saga, and enjoy specialty food and beverage offerings inspired by the galaxy far, far away.
May 4, often referred to as “May the Fourth,” makes this event especially popular with Star Wars fans.
Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite
Dates: June 16 and June 18, 2026
Pride Nite celebrates inclusivity, community, and diversity with vibrant décor, themed entertainment, specialty menu items, and commemorative merchandise. This joyful evening honors the LGBTQIA+ community and continues to grow in popularity each year.
Additional event details will be shared as the dates approach.
Planning Tips from Academy Travel
-
Purchase tickets early, as most After Dark events sell out quickly.
-
Consider coordinating your park tickets and hotel stay around your event night.
-
Plan time for specialty food and merchandise, as many offerings are exclusive to the event.
-
Take advantage of unlimited PhotoPass downloads to capture unique character encounters and themed backdrops.
Disneyland After Dark events are perfect for couples, friend groups, Disney history lovers, and fans of specific franchises. Because these are limited-capacity evenings, they offer a more intimate and festive park experience.
If you’re interested in building your 2026 Disneyland vacation around one of these themed nights, Academy Travel can help you secure tickets, book your Disneyland Resort hotel, and create a customized itinerary that maximizes your time in the parks.
