Hi Crystal! We are so happy you found your way to our little corner of the magic here at planDisney.
It looks like love is in the air for you, and you'll be attending
Sweethearts' Nite in just a few months! You're going to love all the special photo opportunities, fireworks, character interactions, and surprise keepsakes sure to make your heart smile! It sounds like you also have
regular theme park admission for Disneyland Park that day. Typically, there will be a check-in location for the evening event just inside the Main Entrance Gate, so you would not need to exit and reenter. While I have seen it done this way previously at After Dark events, things can change so I recommend checking in with a Cast Member when you arrive to make sure you have all the up-to-date information for the evening.
Now, let's talk about the timing for your afternoon! With your regular theme park admission, you will be able to enjoy the park from the moment those gates open up. At 6:00 p.m., Guests with tickets for Sweethearts' Nite are allowed to mix into the park with regular-day Guests. At 8:00 p.m., regular day Guests will be kindly ushered out, and those with tickets for the event can continue to play in the parks until the party officially kicks off at 9:00 p.m. So, what does this mean for you? Well, it means that at some point between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., I would recommend heading to the Main Entrance Gate to check in and collect your credentials for the evening. This is how Cast Members will identify that you have Sweethearts' Nite tickets, and you will not be asked to head home at 8:00 p.m.
While I know it can be fun to keep some elements a surprise, I do recommend reading up a little bit on all the special offerings that will only be available at the event. When I went to Star Wars Nite back in May, I had a blast but definitely felt like I could have had a better lay of the land to get the most magic out of my night. Yes, you will likely have shorter wait times for some fan-favorite attractions, but I find these nights are sprinkled in pixie dust when I take advantage of the photo opportunities, character meets, and special activities only available at these events. I've got my eye on The Royal Ball over at
"it's a small world" and a moonlight cruise on the
Mark Twain Riverboat!
Crystal, I hope this was helpful and set you on the right path for a magical day and night at the Happiest Place on Earth! If you have any more questions, you know where to find us here at
planDisney.
Keep wishing on those stars,
Tara