On April 15, 1983, Tokyo Disneyland opened its doors, and has been serving fun and happiness to visitors ever since. The complex expanded with the addition of the Tokyo resort hotels and DisneySea, and together they are celebrating with a year of special events. The Disney characters have new costumes for the occasion, which are also featured on the special collectible merchandise offered throughout the resort. April 15, 2013 to March 20, 2014 marks the official Disney Happiness Year.
The Tokyo Disneyland daylight parade has been redone to a “Happiness is Here” theme. As with previous parades, it is full of color and music and dancing. The Disney characters make an appearance on 13 floats which are divided into 7 theme units. The parade follows the usual parade route, and there is one performance per day which lasts about 45 minutes. This parade is a must-see for a visit to the park.
DisneySea has a special performance once a day in Mediterranean Harbor. It is called “Happiness Greeting on the Sea.” Mickey and friends arrive on a fanciful barge and entertain the audience with a welcome and a song, which spectators are invited to join with a simple dance. The performance lasts about 8 minutes.
The nighttime fireworks display at both Disneyland and DisneySea has been updated with the addition of a new song and display for the occasion.
For more information: http://www.tokyodisneyresort.co.jp/en/event/happinessyear/index.html