After three years and an extra weekend of weather-related cancellations, the “Magic Happens” parade has returned to Disneyland. “Magic Happens” debuted in early 2020 but was only performed for two weeks before the resort closed due to COVID-19. The parade is back now, performing in the afternoon and at night, for two unique experiences. Click here for our coverage of the daytime version and read on for a look at the nighttime “Magic Happens.”
Mickey and Friends
Mickey Mouse leads the way on the first float of the processional, gliding along on glistening swirls of magic emanating from a giant, iridescent magical hat.
The hat stands 15 feet tall from atop the parade’s first float and is covered in 300 shimmering LED lights for an extra dose of magic.
Moana
On her voyager canoe, Moana journeys forth on the crest of a towering wave, inspired by beautiful koa wood carvings and inset with dazzling, animated glimpses into the magic the ocean holds. This is the first full-scale “Moana”-inspired float to be created for a Disney park.
Joining Moana on her journey is Maui, who travels along on his own magical piece of the islands with Moana’s adorable pet pig, Pua. Maui also made his official Disneyland Resort debut in the 2020 debut of “Magic Happens.”
Hei Hei was also spotted (and heard clucking) among a troupe of Polynesian-themed dancers as part of the “Magic Happens” return.
Coco
Inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “Coco”, the next float features Miguel as he strums away on the guitar of Ernesto de la Cruz. This spectacular float connects the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead with a vibrant marigold bridge. Alebrije spirit animals join the procession alongside Miguel’s dog, Dante. When “Magic Happens” debuted in 2020, the parade marked the first time the film “Coco” was used as a float for a Disney Parks parade.
The dancers preceding the Frozen float have received refreshed costumes and new choreography in the returning “Magic Happens” performance.
Frozen
Fans of “Frozen” and “Frozen II” will be happy to spot Anna and Elsa as they explore the mysteries of the Enchanted Forest.
Their friends Kristoff, Sven, and Olaf are also featured in the “Magic Happens” performance.
Tiana and Prince Naveen
Tiana and her Prince Naveen were missing from the first return performance of the “Magic Happens” parade, but the magic of seeing this float at night was certainly worth the wait.
Disney Classics
Cinderella, of course, was seen promenading aboard her enchanted pumpkin carriage.
Other iconic characters from classic Disney films take to Main Street U.S.A as part of the “Magic Happens” parade. Princess Aurora, Prince Phillip, the three Good Fairies, Aladdin, Genie, Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Pinocchio, and Fairy Godmother were all among the characters featured in tonight’s performance.
Watch the Full Return of the Nighttime “Magic Happens” Parade
Pending any global pandemics, weather delays, or cancellations, “Magic Happens” will be performed twice each day at 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
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