Experience the Magic of Exclusive After-Hours Events at 2026 Disneyland After Dark

The excitement doesn’t end when the sun sets at the Disneyland Resort—in fact, that’s when the real magic begins during Disneyland After Dark. 

These after-hours, limited-capacity events give guests an exclusive chance to explore the park in a completely new light.

Whether you’re dancing under the stars during Pride Nite, sharing a romantic moment at Sweethearts Nite, or posing in your best space gear at Star Wars Nite, there’s something for everyone.

There’s even more to love with themed food, nostalgic callbacks, and exclusive photo opportunities throughout the park. 

Ready to experience the magic after dark? Keep reading to explore the most exciting Disney After Dark events of the year!

Discover Where the Disneyland After Dark Fun Unfolds All Around the Park

All Disneyland After Dark events take place at Disneyland Park, located within the iconic Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. 

These specially curated nights begin after the park closes to the general public, creating an exclusive, limited-capacity experience.

Guests with event tickets are allowed to enter the park up to three hours before the official start of the party, giving them a head start on dinner, rides, and photo ops. 

With different lands transformed according to each night’s theme, every corner of the park feels fresh and exciting.

Star Wars fans can head to Galaxy’s Edge during Star Wars Nite, while 2000s kids can relive their favorite shows at Disney Channel Nite. Romance lights up Main Street, U.S.A. during Sweethearts Nite, and inclusive celebrations take center stage during Pride Nite.

From Tomorrowland to Fantasyland, each area of the park embraces the event’s theme with immersive décor and tailored entertainment. If you’ve only experienced Disneyland by day, these after-dark moments are a must.

Mark Your Calendar—Here’s When to Join the After-Hours Magic in 2026

Disneyland After Dark hours typically run from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM, with early admission to Disneyland Park starting at 6:00 PM for event ticket holders. This gives guests a full three extra hours to explore the park, dine, and enjoy rides before the themed festivities officially begin.

Each Disney After Dark event has its own limited dates. 

• Sweethearts Nite: January 22, 25, and 27, plus February 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, and 17
  
• Disneyland After Dark: 70 Years of Favorites: March 3 and March 5
  
• Disney Channel Nite: April 12, 14, and 16
  
• Star Wars Nite: April 28 and 30, plus May 4 and 6, during Season of the Force
  
• Pride Nite: June 16 and 18

Because these are limited-date, separately ticketed, special-themed soirees, Disneyland After Dark tickets often sell out quickly. Be sure to check official dates and secure your spot as early as possible to enjoy your preferred theme night.

Planning a Trip? Here’s Who Will Absolutely Love These After-Dark Disney Events

These events are crafted with all kinds of Disney fans in mind, offering unique experiences you won’t find during regular park hours:

• Couples: Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or just a date night, Sweethearts Nite offers romantic backdrops, low crowds, and Disney love stories come to life.
  
• Families: Enjoy special character meet-and-greets and kid-friendly attractions with shorter wait times and less hustle.
  
• Disney Superfans: Limited-edition merchandise, rare character appearances, and themed entertainment make every night a collector’s dream.
  
• LGBTQ+ Guests and Allies: Celebrate love and inclusion during Pride Nite, where everyone belongs and joy takes center stage.
  
• Pop Culture and Fandom Enthusiasts: Channel your inner Jedi at Star Wars Nite or relive the golden days of TV at Disney Channel Nite.

No matter which theme speaks to you, there’s a Disneyland After Dark event designed to bring your Disney dreams to life.

From Lightsabers to Love Songs—Here’s What to Expect at Disneyland After Dark

Every Disneyland After Dark experience includes a blend of entertainment, character moments, and exclusive offerings tailored to each night’s theme:

• Themed Entertainment: Enjoy nighttime parades, DJ dance parties, and unique shows like lightsaber training at Star Wars Nite or nostalgic musical numbers during 70 Years of Favorites.
  
• Exclusive Photo Ops: Pose with rare characters and themed backdrops, with digital downloads included (excluding separately priced Disney PhotoPass packages).
  
• Limited-Time Food & Beverages: From Star Wars–themed snacks to sweet and savory Valentine’s Day treats, each event features exclusive menus.
  
• Merchandise and Keepsakes: Find event-specific apparel, collectibles, and pins only available to attendees.
  
• Shorter Ride Wait Times: Enjoy many attractions with minimal waits, giving you more time to dance, snack, and explore.
  
• Dress to Impress: Many guests wear themed outfits (within costume guidelines), making the night feel festive and immersive.

Each night is filled with immersive storytelling that reflects the theme—from music and projections to rare interactions and culinary surprises.

Before You Go: Tips, Parking, and Everything You Need for a Smooth Disney Night

A little prep goes a long way toward maximizing your Disneyland After Dark experience. To make the most of your Disneyland After Dark event, remember to:

• Arrive early to take advantage of early park access at 6:00 PM. That gives you plenty of time to dine, shop, and catch a few rides before the party begins.
• Park your vehicle at the Mickey & Friends and Pixar Pals Parking Structures, with trams running to the main entrance. Remember, parking fees are not included with your event ticket.
• Bring your fully charged phone or camera for those must-have photo ops throughout the night. Scan the QR code on your event wristband to access your Disney PhotoPass digital photos, and note that photo downloads exclude separately priced Disney packages.
• Check costume rules if you’re dressing for the theme, and review ride availability as some attractions may be closed for refurbishments. 

Ready for a Night Like No Other? Disneyland After Dark 2026 Starts Here!

Whether you’re craving nostalgia, romance, or intergalactic adventure, Disneyland After Dark offers unforgettable experiences for every kind of Disney fan. These magical nights bring the park to life in a whole new way.

Tripster is here to help you plan your Los Angeles trip from start to finish—with vacation packages, hotels, and tickets to top shows and attractions all in one place. 

Save time and money while securing your Disneyland After Dark tickets and building a trip you’ll love.

From Sweethearts Nite to Star Wars Nite, every after-dark party brings new surprises, memories, and magic. Don’t miss your chance to step into a Disney night like no other!