Magic Happens Parade at DLR; mickey; moana; Main Street
  • On Jan 2, 2026
    Aly from CA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    we have 6 adults and 5 kids going to the Disneyland resort on 1/22 for my cousins 40th birthday. I wanted to inquire about options for surprising her with an escort for the day or some kind of VIP tour. Can you provide info about both options. Thanks!

    Hi there, Aly!

    Thank you for reaching out to planDisney. I think the best place to celebrate a milestone birthday is at Disneyland Resort!

    Disneyland VIP Tours are an unforgettable experience! On my previous tours, my group was able to enjoy most major attractions with minimal wait times and watched the fireworks from a reserved viewing area. We used the Lighting Lane entrances on attractions that had them. The tour guides have consistently been outstanding in my experience, as they were knowledgeable about both the history and current details of the theme parks. They were also genuinely enjoyable to spend the day with. If it fits your budget, I highly recommend booking a Disneyland VIP Tour.

    There are a few important details to keep in mind. VIP Tours typically allow up to ten Guests, including infants. From what I have seen in the past, a group of eleven Guests often requires paying for a second tour guide. Tours also require a minimum of seven hours and can last up to ten. I recommend reaching out to the Disneyland VIP Tour team to discuss your party size and explore options. Since the number of tours offered each day is limited, contacting them as early as possible is the best approach!

    If you want to go in a different direction, the World of Color Dessert Party is a standout experience that my family loves. Guests are provided with sweets, snacks, and beverages while relaxing at a table and watching the World of Color Happiness! performance. It has become my family's favorite way to end a fun-filled day at Disneyland! 

    You may also want to consider a Guided Tour, which typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours and focuses on a specific theme. A Story of Celebration: 70th Anniversary Guided Tour at Disneyland Resort highlights key parts of Disneyland's history, plus you get access to a reserved viewing area for a Nighttime Spectacular (which is often the fantastic Paint the Night parade, based on what I have seen during past tours). The Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour is another great option, offering a deeper look at the train's history and the chance to ride in the Presidential Car, the Lilly Belle, depending on weather and availability. 

    These experiences can book up quickly, so it’s best to decide what interests you and reserve as soon as possible. If your preferred activity isn't available, keep checking the website because Guests frequently cancel their reservations. 

    Happy birthday to your cousin! Make sure to grab your cousin a complimentary birthday button from City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland Park or at Guest Services in Disney California Adventure Park. I hope you find the perfect activity to enjoy while celebrating your cousin at Disneyland!

    Magic Happens!
    Jen
thumbnail image for Jen

Meet the Panelist: Jen, Nevada

Hello from Nevada! I'm Jen - a married mom, social worker, and lifetime collector of Disney experiences. Disneyland Resort has been my "home away from home" since I was a child, and Walt Disney World Resort has become one of my favorite vacations spots as an adult. Whether it's celebrating special occasions, dining with food allergies, or making use of digital tools, I love helping Guests maximize their time and fun while visiting Disney destinations!  Learn More About Jen

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