Welcome to planDisney, Tracey! Seeing
Paint the Night light up the parade route is such a spectacular experience. When those floats round the corner in a swirl of color, music, and more than a million dazzling lights, it truly feels like the night itself is celebrating right along with you. I completely understand wanting to secure the very best view.
The chairs you’ve seen near “
it’s a small world” are typically part of the
Disneyland VIP Tour experience. A VIP Tour can be an unforgettable way to enjoy both
Disneyland Park and
Disney California Adventure Park with a dedicated guide leading the way. Your guide acts as a personal concierge, helping you build a customized itinerary based on your group’s must-do attractions, entertainment priorities, and dining plans. They can also assist with dining reservations and provide fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and hidden details you might otherwise miss.
As part of the VIP Tour, Guests may receive access to reserved viewing for select nighttime entertainment, which can include seated viewing areas for Paint the Night when available. To get the most accurate information about availability and pricing for May 2026, I recommend calling the Disneyland VIP Tour Services line directly. Keep in mind that VIP Tours require a minimum of seven hours and can last up to ten hours. Theme park admission is not included in the tour price, but once your VIP Tour is confirmed, park reservations for your group are typically arranged for you. Since it’s still very much a park day filled with walking and attractions, comfortable shoes are definitely recommended for everyone in your party.
Another option to consider is the
A Story of Celebration: 70th Anniversary Guided Tour. One of the highlights of this experience is access to a reserved viewing area for Paint the Night on the evening of your tour. This viewing section is located in Town Square Plaza, across from the steps leading up to the Disneyland Railroad Main Street Station. While chairs are not provided in this area, Guests are able to sit curbside for a fantastic front-row perspective as the glowing floats make their way down
Main Street, U.S.A. If you choose this option, I suggest arriving a bit early to settle in, as other Guests from the same tour day will also be joining the reserved section.
I hope this helps you feel confident as you plan your parade-viewing strategy, Tracey. Paint the Night is truly one of those can’t-miss moments that leaves everyone smiling long after the final float passes by. If you have any additional questions, please visit us here again at planDisney!
Wishing you a visit filled with glowing lights and unforgettable memories.
David