Disney Unveils Fresh Take on Tinker Bell Ahead of 70th Anniversary

Tinker Bell has always been more than just Peter Pan’s pint-sized sidekick. Since her 1953 debut, she’s become a defining symbol of Disney magic—equal parts glitter and grit. From fireworks finales to film openings, her glowing silhouette has charmed generations. But in a franchise that is constantly evolving, even the icons get an update.

With Disneyland preparing for its 70th anniversary this month, the resort has been rolling out a slate of returning favorites and fresh reveals. Among them is the comeback of the beloved Paint the Night parade and a dramatic new look for the fairy who starts it all.

Tinker Bell’s flight above Sleeping Beauty Castle has long been a tradition, but her presence isn’t limited to the skies. She greets guests at Pixie Hollow in Disneyland and at Magic Kingdom’s Town Square Theater, and plays a prominent role in nighttime shows, such as soaring through the sky towards the end of Happily Ever After. Though reports suggested otherwise in 2024, Disney confirmed she was never permanently removed—despite persistent rumors sparked by outdated speculation.

Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

A New Look for an Old Favorite

When Paint the Night returns to Disneyland Resort on May 16, Tinker Bell will open the show as usual—but with an all-new “glow up.”

Disney has revealed the fairy’s revamped parade costume, which features enhanced detailing and yellow lighting layered over her signature green. The makeover was previewed by reporter Scott Gustin, who shared before-and-after images of the updated design. It’s a subtle shift that brings added shimmer to an already luminous character.

Disneyland shared a first look at Tinker Bell’s “glow up” for the Paint The Night Parade. Here’s a before/after showing her new look.

The parade will make its long-awaited return when the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration officially kicks off on May 16.

Disneyland shared a first look at Tinker Bell's "glow up" for the Paint The Night Parade. Here's a before/after showing her new look.

The parade will make its long-awaited return when the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration officially kicks off on May 16. pic.twitter.com/bm9BVhvB7v

— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) May 10, 2025

This isn’t the first time Tinker Bell has weathered controversy. In recent years, the character has come under scrutiny for being jealous of Wendy in Peter Pan and “body-conscious,” prompting internal debate over whether she remained a suitable ambassador.

The Paint the Night parade also comes with other notable updates. The Frozen float, previously removed due to height restrictions at California Adventure, will return for this version of the show. In exchange, The Incredibles float—added as a substitute—is set to be retired. Other floats will feature beloved characters from Toy Story, Cars, and Mickey Mouse, all set to Owl City’s high-energy anthem, “When Can I See You Again?”

Disneyland’s Anniversary: Past, Present, and Pixie Dust

The return of Paint the Night is just one part of a larger celebration. On May 16, Disneyland will officially launch its 70th anniversary, marking the milestone with a wave of returning shows and new entertainment experiences (but no daytime parade for Disneyland Park).

Credit: Jeremy Wong, Flickr

Among the biggest draws is the return of Wondrous Journeys, the emotional fireworks show created for Disney100. The nighttime spectacular will resume on select evenings throughout the summer, bringing back its sweeping score and tributes to Walt Disney Animation’s rich legacy.

Inside the Main Street Opera House, guests can soon experience Walt Disney: A Magical Life—a new stage show that uses Disney’s first-ever Audio-Animatronic figure of Walt himself. Though the debut has been delayed until July, the show promises to blend robotics and storytelling to trace Walt’s journey from cartoonist to cultural icon.

Over at Disney California Adventure, the celebration continues with World of Color – Happiness!, a reimagined fountain show that lets guests vote on their favorite Inside Out characters. The Muppets also appear in the preshow safety message, adding a bit of humor to the spectacle.

Credit: Disney

Daytime festivities include the return of the Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! parade, where Woody, Buzz, and the Incredibles take to the streets in a vibrant, high-energy procession.

Tinker Bell’s new look may just be one detail in a much larger event—but it underscores Disney’s continued effort to honor the characters fans cherish, while refreshing them for new generations. As Disneyland turns 70, it’s a reminder that even fairytales can benefit from a little extra sparkle.

Are you excited for the return of Paint the Night?