Disneyland Gives Back to Anaheim with 70 Happiest Hours Initiative

Published on Aug 21, 2025 by Will

For 70 years, Disneyland has been a cherished part of Anaheim. To celebrate this milestone, the resort launched the 70 Happiest Hours initiative, bringing a series of magical events to neighborhoods citywide from August 20 to 22, 2025.

As part of this celebration, residents across Anaheim experienced joyful gatherings featuring dance parties, surprise Disney character visits, live entertainment, and other delightful experiences, spreading happiness beyond the park walls.

Disneyland Gives Back to Anaheim with 70 Happiest Hours

Disneyland Gives Back to Anaheim with 70 Happiest Hours Initiative

Whether you’re an Anaheim resident or Disneyland holds a special place in your heart, stay tuned for celebrations and magic sprinkled throughout the city during the 70 Happiest Hours initiative.

Day 1: August 20, 2025

8:00 A.M. – First Day School Magic at Crescent Elementary

The celebration began with a magical first day of school event at Crescent Elementary School. More than 800 students and staff were greeted by Disney characters, live entertainment, and delicious breakfast treats. Each attendee also received a plush Mickey Mouse keepsake.

9:30 A.M. – Celebrating Young Readers at Ponderosa Elementary

At Ponderosa Elementary School, over 250 third and fourth graders enjoyed a special literary event where they met Mickey Mouse and Disney Ambassador Raul Aquino Rojas. The celebration included music, photo opportunities, and book giveaways.

New York Times bestselling author Ridley Pearson surprised attendees with a live reading of his newest book, 'Kingdom Keepers: Inheritance: The Final Draw.' Disneyland Resort also presented a $15,000 donation to support reading programs at the school.

Disneyland Gives Back to Anaheim with 70 Happiest Hours Initiative

12:00 P.M. – Sixties-Style Sockhop at Brookhurst Community Center

Local seniors gathered for a sixties-themed dance party featuring a live band playing 1960s favorites from Motown to girl groups. Guests enjoyed dancing, Disney-themed treats, games, and a delicious lunch.

4:00 P.M. – Afternoon Fun at the Boys and Girls Club of Anaheim

Nearly 100 participants at the Boys and Girls Club were delighted by visits from Donald Duck and Daisy Duck, along with coloring activities, crafts assisted by Disney VoluntEARS, snacks, and souvenir popcorn buckets.

7:00 P.M. – Block Party Bash at Ponderosa Park

The day concluded with a lively block party featuring live entertainment, giveaways, games, themed décor, and snacks. Disney characters including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and princesses mingled with residents. Disneyland Resort President Thomas Mazloum welcomed attendees, expressing gratitude for 70 years of magic.

The celebrations are set to continue with more events across Anaheim, sharing happiness and community spirit inspired by Disneyland’s seventh decade.

To read more about this, visit the Official Disney Parks Blog post here.
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