Disneyland shares new details for ‘Magic Happens’ parade
Disneyland has shared a preview of their upcoming daytime parade, “Magic Happens,” which will make its debut on Feb. 28.
This new parade celebrates the magical moments found at the heart of Disney stories, representing both Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films.
“Magic Happens” includes nine floats, featuring characters from “Frozen 2,” “Cinderella,” “Moana,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “Coco,” “The Sword in the Stone,” and “The Princess and the Frog,” with Mickey Mouse on a float of his own.
In addition to the floats, the parade also includes over 90 dynamic performers and more than two dozen Disney and Pixar characters. The parade’s costume design takes inspiration from modern runway fashion, but presents it with a Disney twist. Many performers and characters in the parade will wear all-new costumes, made specifically for “Magic Happens.”
As for the score, “Magic Happens” will put a contemporary spin on Disney classics, as well as present two new songs co-composed by singer-songwriter Todrick Hall.
“This is a full-circle moment for me,” said Hall, who started his career at Walt Disney World Resort as a performer in “Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage. “I learned how to dance from watching Disney parades, so the fact that I am getting to create the music that these iconic Disney characters are going to be performing to is pretty much the most epic thing that has happened to me in my life!”
The parade begins with Mickey Mouse leading the way on a float that puts a new spin on his iconic sorcerer’s hat. Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto, and Chip ‘n Dale will join in, dancing alongside a group of performers who represent stylized aspects of magic.
On her voyager canoe, Moana will journey forward on the crest of a wave, inspired by koa wood carvings and inset with an animated look at what magic the ocean holds.
Joining Moana on her adventure is Maui, who travels on his own magical piece of the islands with Moana’s pet pig, Pua. This will be Maui’s official Disneyland Resort debut.
Following them is Miguel, appearing in person for the first time, strumming the guitar of Ernesto de la Cruz. This float connects the Land of the Living with the Land of the Dead by a marigold bridge. Alebrije spirit animals will join the procession, as well as Miguel’s dog Dante.
From “Frozen 2,” Anna and Elsa will explore the mysterious Enchanted Forest protected by Nokk, the water spirit. Their friends Kristoff, Sven, and Olaf will also tag along for the fun.
The grand finale of “Magic Happens” will celebrate magical moments from classic Disney films. The start of this finale will feature many iconic characters, including Genie, Aladdin, Tinker Bell, Peter Pan. Blue Fairy, Pinocchio, and Fairy Godmother. These characters will lead the way as the final floats are introduced:
From “Cinderella,” guests can watch the “Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo” moment as Cinderella is seen inside a pumpkin before it transforms into a magical carriage to take her to the ball.
From “The Sword in the Stone,” Merlin watches on as Arthur pulls the sword from the stone, claiming his place as king.
Tiana and Naveen from “The Princess and the Frog” are seen in a swirl of golden flowers where they share a kiss and transform back into their human selves.
The happily-ever-after scene from “Sleeping Beauty” closes out the parade, featuring the three good fairies and Princess Aurora, whose dress changes between shades of pink and blue.
For guests looking to commemorate this new parade with merchandise, you’re in luck!
There will be a new “Magic Happens” merchandise collection, including a Minnie Mouse ear headband, an adult baseball-style shirt, a themed sipper, a holiday ornament, and pin.
“Magic Happens” will make its official debut at Disneyland park on Feb. 28. 2020. You can check out a sneak peek at the parade in the video below:
