Disneyland Shows

Disneyland shows 2011 are apt to happen on any day, in any place, and offer a wide variety to spark the interest of just about anyone. At the top of the list for many are the magical fireworks displays that burst behind the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland Park virtually every evening during the summer and on special holidays like Halloween and New Year’s Eve. This iconic Disneyland entertainment that was featured on the opening shots of the Wonderful World of Color television series is part of the history of the theme park. It’s been enjoyed by children and adults of all ages since 1956, a year after the park opened.

Another popular pyrotechnic Disneyland light show is Fantasmic!, which is held on and around the Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island in Frontierland. The show is led by Mickey Mouse himself, and is inspired by the classic film Fantasia. If you like, you can enjoy this Disneyland light show while dining on a dessert sampler near the Café Orleans. To get tickets for this prime seating, you need to call ahead to make reservations.

A newer but equally spectacular Disneyland light show is The World of Color that is held in the California Adventure Park. There are several dining packages that include dinner and the show available at 5:00 p.m. and 7:05 p.m. each evening. These are available in several venues, including the Napa Valley Wine Country Trattoria. You can enjoy the show and cocktails at Ariels Grotto, snacks in Paradise Bay, or order a picnic that comes with reserved seating.

Parades comprise more of the traditional Disneyland entertainment that happens with regularity. These have been going on in Disneyland Park just about as long as the fireworks displays. There are floats, bands, street performers, and the beloved princesses and characters that are the trademark of the Disney brand. Another of the Disneyland shows is the daily parade that occurs in the California Adventure Park, featuring Pixar characters from films like The Incredibles, Monsters, Inc., Ratatouille, Finding Nemo, A Bug’s Life, and the perennial favorite Toy Story. Be aware that you might get squirted with water during this extravaganza.

While most of the traditional Disneyland entertainment has been geared towards children, it has also been designed to fulfill Walt Disney’s original dream of a magical place that families can enjoy together. And because many adults grew up loving the Disney television show, the movies, and all the characters, it is sometimes difficult to tell who is enjoying the entertainment more—adults or children. However, there are some 2011 Disneyland shows that are decidedly more adult-oriented than others. These will be found in the venues of the Downtown Disney District that serve alcoholic beverages and provide live entertainment. Look especially for the legendary House of Blues and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, where you are apt to be entertained by internationally known headliners. You can also watch the best sports games at the ESPN Sports Zone and watch the latest film releases at 12 AMC Theaters.