Disneyland Gives Back to Anaheim with 70 Happiest Hours Initiative

For 70 years, The Happiest Place on Earth has called the city of Anaheim home. In celebration of the anniversary of Disneyland Resort and to bring a touch of pixie dust to our neighbors, the resort is inviting residents to join the celebration with exciting events across the city through 70 Happiest Hours in Anaheim. The excitement starts Aug. 20 and continues through Aug. 22, 2025! 

From dance parties and unforgettable festivities to surprise visits from favorite characters, keep an eye out for our magic makers on the move this week as we celebrate happiness like only Disney can – you never know where we’ll show up next. 

Kicking off the celebration in style, the fun began at Crescent Elementary School this morning where students and teachers were greeted with a touch of magic. Over 800 students and staff were surprised with a first day of school celebration inspired by The Happiest Place on Earth, including visits from Disney characters, live entertainment, delicious breakfast treats and more.  

Each student and staff member also received a plush Mickey Mouse to take home as a reminder of the special day. From a spirit tunnel of Disney VoluntEARS to moments shared with their favorite characters, this first day of school was sure to be one they won’t forget. 

Later in the morning, the fun continued at Ponderosa Elementary School, where third and fourth grade students were invited to a special celebration designed just for them.  

Greeted by Mickey Mouse and Disney Ambassador of Disneyland Resort, Raul Aquino Rojas, over 250 students enjoyed festive music, photo backdrops and tasty treats while choosing from a selection of books to take home. 

To make the moment even more special, New York Times bestselling author Ridley Pearson made a surprise appearance and participated in a live reading of his newest book, “Kingdom Keepers: Inheritance: The Final Draw.”  

In honor of this exciting moment, the resort also announced a $15,000 donation voucher to Ponderosa Elementary School to support the continued development of these students and their love of reading.  

Feeling hungry? Lunchtime at the Brookhurst Community Center got an extra boost today as local seniors were surprised with a sixties-themed dance party and lunch event.  

These residents brought their appetite and outta sight moves to the dance floor in festive fashion as a live band played popular hits of the 1960s, from Motown to girl groups and everything in between. When they took a break from the dance moves, attendees also enjoyed a delicious meal, Disney-themed treats, games and more.  

The magic makers are on the move again! Our next stop was the Boys and Girls Club of Anaheim, where nearly 100 participants were surprised by a visit from some Disney characters. Donald Duck and Daisy Duck stopped by to say hello to students and capture memorable photo moments with their new pals. Students enjoyed coloring and craft time with the help of Disney VoluntEARS, and they received tasty snacks and novelty popcorn buckets to take home as a souvenir from this unforgettable day. 

As the sun set on the first day of the 70 Happiest Hours in Anaheim, there was still one more stop to spread happiness throughout the city. The day wouldn’t be complete without a festive block party bash – with a touch of Disney magic. From live entertainment to exciting giveaways and more, residents of all ages enjoyed the live band, themed décor, fun games and snacks while getting to know their neighbors.

Of course, this block party featured favorite Disney characters who were excited to meet new friends – including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, enchanting princesses and more. Disneyland Resort President Thomas Mazloum couldn’t miss out on the fun either. He also stopped by the party to welcome residents and thank them for 70 incredible years of Disneyland Resort.  

Stay tuned for more updates to come as the 70 Happiest Hours fun continues tomorrow.