Hi there Sierra,
Welcome to planDisney and thank you for your question! I have heard so many great things about the
Sweetheart's Nite Disneyland After Dark event - and it was extremely popular this year - so I'm glad to hear you're thinking about attending next year!
These special events are the ultimate way to meet unique characters that don't visit the parks often, try new delicious themed snacks, and experience some extra special fun in the Happiest Place on Earth.
To attend these events, you only need a special event ticket. The special event ticket will allow you to enter Disneyland Park 3 hours before the start of the event. You do not need to also purchase
standard park tickets unless you want to visit outside of the special event hours.
These events have gotten extremely popular over the last few years, so I would highly recommend keeping an eye on the
Disney Parks Blog for announcements as to when the special event tickets will go on sale. Then, plan on purchasing them as early as you can! It's not unusual for some of these events to sell out.
Thanks again for your question, Sierra! I hope you have a great time visiting the Happiest Place on Earth!
Have a Magical Day,
Greg