Looking for summer excitement? The Disney Theme Parks provide options galore by celebrating the sun-lovin' season with events that'll keep fans of all ages in a "pixie dust state of mind." "Summer Nightastic!" – the popular nighttime entertainment extravaganza – returns with a V.I.P. (Very Important Party) schedule you won't want to miss. From Disneyland to Walt Disney World, there's something for everyone looking to forego the typical sand-in-your-sandwich beach escape. Here's the 411 straight from Park insiders ... and there's plenty of family fun to choose from!
DISNEYLAND RESORT
From June 11 through August 29, "Summer Nightastic!" takes center stage at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure in Anaheim, California. Brand-new shows join old favorites to spark the nights with pure Disney magic. Fantasy springs to life in the highly anticipated "World of Color," an original nighttime water spectacular with more than 1,200 choreographed fountains, 30 high-definition projectors, music, and animated Characters from timeless Disney tales like "The Lion King," "The Little Mermaid," Disney·Pixar's "Finding Nemo," "Wall-E," and "Toy Story." Held nightly at Paradise Bay in Disney California Adventure, "World of Color" promises to transport audiences into another dimension of classic Disney storytelling, so nestle in early for the perfect viewing spot.
In Disneyland Park, "Fantasmic!" applauds the triumph of good over evil as a 40-foot, fire-breathing Maleficent battles Mickey while towering over pyrotechnics, video, water, live actors, and 3-D animation along Frontierland's Rivers of America. Insider tip – the best viewing is along the River, near the less crowded Haunted Mansion area. Pixie Hollow Enchantment is Fantasyland's must-see, fully orchestrated show aglow with lights, color, and pure Disney magic. Photos with Tink and her Fairy friends are available before 8 p.m., but the show runs continuously throughout the night.
Shake your groove thing at Tomorrowland's TLT Dance Club from sundown to closing time. Local DJs spin today's hottest dance music during the week, while live bands rock the weekends. Cap off the night with "Magical," a fireworks display bursting with color, music, pyrotechnics, and a special appearance by Peter Pan and Dumbo. Here's an added bonus for pin collectors – commemorate your visit with a special limited-edition "Summer Nightastic" Disneyland pin featuring Dumbo flying over Sleeping Beauty Castle.
While you're here, check out an attraction inspired by the carnival-style games that epitomize summer. "Toy Story Mania!" at Disney California Adventure delivers midway amusements with an interactive, 4-D twist. Join Woody, Buzz, and the gang as they introduce their new "Toy Story 3" pals Buttercup, Trixie, Dolly, and Mr. Pricklepants at Disney California Adventure.
WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT
For the first season ever, "Summer Nightastic!" lands at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, from June 6 through August 14. Guests will be treated to all-new entertainment as well as additions to old favorites ... with a few surprises guaranteed to make the night sizzle.
One glance at the Twilight Zone® Tower of Terror after dark and it's clear something strange is brewing at Disney's Hollywood Studios. As an eerie green glow emanates from the abandoned shafts, a host of unexpected sights, sounds, and sensations – including four frightful new drops – are sure to thrill night crawlers right out of their seats.
Epcot's "Sounds Like Summer Concert Series" headlines some of the area's best tribute bands as well as several new acts – Beginnings (A Tribute to Chicago), Satisfaction (A Tribute to the Rolling Stones), and Karin Lawson (A Tribute to Janet Jackson). Where to go and when? Relive the carefree memories of summers past at the America Gardens Theater adjacent to the American Adventure Pavilion from June 12 to July 31.
Brighten your nights at the Main Street Electrical Parade and the Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular, both at the Magic Kingdom. The return of the Main Street Electrical Parade features thousands of dazzling LEDs lighting up new floats inspired by Pinocchio and Snow White, with Tinker Bell leading the way. Music and bursts of color will dazzle at Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular, the perfect ending to a lazy summer day.
Though Disney Water Parks are not specifically part of the "Summer Nightastic!" event, Guests can meet Lilo & Stitch at Typhoon Lagoon or giggle with Goofy over at Blizzard Beach from mid-May through the end of August. Best times to hit the Water Parks? After 2 p.m. to avoid the morning crowds. Schedules subject to change.
Cruise over to Disney Parks for the hottest summer fun this side of the equator ... just don't forget your sunscreen!
