The resort’s 70 th anniversary festivities kick off Friday with new experiences and returning favorites that feel like a love letter to existing fans. It’s also an invitation for first timers to discover why Disneyland is called the Happiest Place on Earth and to make it their own.

Disneyland is gearing up for a 70th anniversary celebration to rival the yearlong parties for the 50th and 60th anniversaries with a new attraction, updated water show, character cavalcade, two returning parades and a fan-favorite fireworks show.