Photos: Experience ‘Magic Happens’ Parade at Disneyland
Brace yourself for an unparalleled feast of sights, sounds, and enchantment as the “Magic Happens” parade marches down Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland twice a day.
Led by the beloved Mickey Mouse and his pals, this daytime extravaganza breathes life into magical moments from iconic Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films, transporting audiences into a realm of wonder and joy.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the grandeur of stunning floats, adorned in breathtaking artistic costumes that resemble moving works of art, all set against an energetic musical score that blends beloved Disney tunes with captivating original compositions. The music is one of the things that makes this parade so special, it makes you want to move and dance to the rhythm of its infectious beats. (The full video of “Magic Happens” at Disneyland is below.)
“Co-composing the music for ‘Magic Happens’ was a full-circle moment for me. I learned how to dance from watching Disney parades, so the fact that I got to create the music that these iconic Disney characters perform to is pretty much the most epic thing that has happened to me in my life,” singer-songwriter and co-composer for “Magic Happens” Todrick Hall said.
Nine awe-inspiring floats transform the parade route into a living canvas, artfully telling captivating stories as they glide by. Adorned in costumes that draw inspiration from modern runways, each ensemble embodies a fashion-forward yet uniquely Disney aesthetic. The immersive experience is elevated further by a musical score and new songs co-composed by Hall, infusing the “Magic Happens” soundtrack with contemporary pop culture influences, breathing new life into timeless Disney classics.
The parade’s highlights are a visual feast, transporting spectators to extraordinary worlds. As Mickey Mouse leads the way, surrounded by glistening swirls of magic emanating from a colossal, iridescent magical hat, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale dance alongside a mesmerizing ensemble of dynamic performers representing different aspects of magic.
Moana embarks on a voyage atop a towering wave, adorned with intricate koa wood carvings and animated glimpses into the ocean’s enchantment. The presence of beloved characters from “Finding Nemo” and the heart of Te Fiti beneath the shimmering waters adds an element of surprise and delight.
The percussion instruments played on the Kakamora unit that follows the “Moana” float are inspired by traditional Polynesian drums and includes Hei Hen, the rooster.
The “Coco” float stands as a bridge connecting the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead, capturing the magic that ensues when Miguel strums Ernesto de la Cruz’s guitar. With vibrant marigolds adorning its path and fantastical alebrije spirit animals joining the procession, the float immerses onlookers in a world of vibrant wonder.
From the mysterious Enchanted Forest of “Frozen 2,” Anna and Elsa, accompanied by Kristoff, Sven, and Olaf, embark on an adventure, with a majestic snowflake symbolizing the four elemental forces from the film.
The grand finale of “Magic Happens” is an enchanting tribute to classic Disney tales, where magical moments take center stage. Genie, Aladdin, Tinker Bell, Peter Pan, Blue Fairy, Pinocchio, and Fairy Godmother lead the way, guiding a magnificent cavalcade of floats that highlight pivotal moments in each character’s journey.
Witness Cinderella’s magical transformation inside a grand pumpkin, the triumphant moment when Arthur pulls the sword from the stone in “The Sword in the Stone,” and the heartwarming conclusion as Tiana and Naveen share a kiss amidst a swirl of golden flowers in “The Princess and the Frog.” The regal finale culminates with the three Good Fairies, Prince Phillip, and Princess Aurora dancing joyously, their costumes shimmering in hues of pink and blue.
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