Today at Disneyland, “Magic Happens”, a completely new daytime parade, graced the streets of Main Street U.S.A. at Disneyland, making it the first new parade to hit the park in nearly nine years. The parade’s predecessor, Mickey’s Soundsational Parade, made its final round on July 18, 2019, but today, it’s time to take in this new daytime spectacular, which brings a joyous, regal and whimsical procession to guests of all ages at Disneyland Park.

“Magic Happens” features stunning floats with Disney characters, imaginative (and extremely catchy) music co-composed by singer-songwriter Todrick Hall, artistic costumes, and modern choreography.

Mickey Mouse and Friends

Mickey Mouse leads the way, gliding along on glistening swirls of magic emanating from a giant, iridescent magical hat.

Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto and Chip ‘n Dale join in, dancing along with a group of eclectic and artsy performers representing stylized aspects of magic.

Moana

On her voyager canoe, Moana journeys forth on the crest of a towering wave, inspired by beautiful koa wood carvings, and inset with dazzling, animated glimpses into the magic the ocean holds. This is the first full-scale “Moana”-inspired float to be created for a Disney park.

Joining Moana on her journey is Maui, who travels along on his own magical piece of the islands with Moana’s adorable pet pig, Pua. Maui makes his official Disneyland Resort debut in “Magic Happens.”

Coco

Miguel appears in person for the first time, celebrating the magic that happens when he strums the guitar of Ernesto de la Cruz in the Disney and Pixar film “Coco.”

This spectacular float connects the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead with a vibrant marigold bridge, and fantastical alebrije spirit animals join the procession, along with Miguel’s dog Dante. This is the first time the film “Coco” has inspired a float for a Disney Parks parade.

Frozen

From “Frozen 2,” Anna and Elsa explore the mysteries of the Enchanted Forest protected by the Nokk, the mystical water spirit, as their friends Kristoff, Sven and Olaf tag along.

Grand Finale

The regal grand finale of “Magic Happens” celebrates magical moments from several classic Disney stories. The start of the finale brings together a collection of many iconic magical characters, including Genie, Aladdin, Tinker Bell, Peter Pan, Blue Fairy, Pinocchio and Fairy Godmother. These characters lead the way as more floats are introduced, each highlighting the moments of magic that changed the characters’ lives:

Cinderella

From “Cinderella,” guests watch the moment of “Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo” as Cinderella is seen inside a grand pumpkin, just as it magically transforms into a glistening carriage to whisk her off to the ball.

The Sword in the Stone

From “The Sword in the Stone,” Merlin wisely leads the way for young Arthur, who finds the magic within himself as he pulls the sword from the stone, claiming his place upon the throne.

The Princess and the Frog

Tiana and Naveen from “The Princess and the Frog” are seen amidst a swirl of golden flowers where they share a kiss, completing their transformation back into human forms.

Sleeping Beauty

The happily-ever-after scene from “Sleeping Beauty” features the three good fairies and Princess Aurora, whose gown shimmers between hues of pink and blue.

Last, but not least, you can check out the full “Magic Happens” parade in the video below:

While the music and stories seen in “Magic Happens” are rooted in iconic Disney lore, the soundtrack and choreography are heavily influenced by today’s pop culture designers, putting a contemporary spin on the classic Disney hits. “Magic Happens” features an energetic musical score and new songs, co-composed by singer-songwriter, Todrick Hall.

We really loved taking in this new parade, but feel we need a few more viewings to get a better grasp of it overall. While the the first four large and majestic floats were certainly impressive, the grand finale ones felt tiny and lacking, and some of the music transitions were choppy and felt off-tempo. As for the central theme, however, we can’t get enough of it. The performers all also did an incredible job of bringing energy and life to this new parade. This is where Magic Happens!