World of Color is a popular nighttime show at Disney California Adventure Park that features lights, lasers, water fountains, music, fire, and fog effects. The show first debuted in 2010 and has gone through a few different versions over the years. After being closed for over two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, World of Color is finally set to make its grand return very soon!
The History of World of Color
The original version of World of Color first premiered on June 11, 2010 at Disney’s California Adventure. The show was presented on the lagoon in Paradise Bay and incorporated nearly 1200 fountains that could shoot water up to 200 feet in the air. The show combined colorful water fountains with lights, fire, lasers, music, and mist screens to bring Disney and Pixar stories to life.
The original show went through a few updates over the years, including the addition of a “Winter Dreams” segment for the Holiday season. In 2015, World of Color got a complete makeover with the debut of “World of Color – Celebrate”. This updated show focused on Walt Disney Animation Studios films and included new technology like searchlights. “World of Color – Season of Light” was introduced in 2016 as a holiday edition of the show.
The most recent version before the pandemic closure was “World of Color – Villainous”, which highlighted classic Disney villains with a wickedly fun spin. It first premiered in 2019 as part of the Disney California Adventure expansion “Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party”.
Closure During the Pandemic
In March 2020, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure temporarily closed due to the spread of COVID-19. This included the indefinite suspension of all live entertainment, including World of Color. The show remained closed for over two years while the parks underwent phased reopening plans.
Disney fans eagerly awaited news of when World of Color would make its return. The lights, fountains, and infrastructure required regular maintenance even while the show was closed to guests. Disney did briefly test elements of the show at night throughout the closure period, giving hope that its comeback was on the horizon.
The Return Date for World of Color
On August 15, 2022, Disney announced that World of Color would make its official return to Disney California Adventure starting on September 2, 2022! The fan-favorite nighttime spectacular will once again illuminate Paradise Bay as part of the Disney100 celebration commemorating Walt Disney’s 100th birthday.
The version returning is the 2019 show – “World of Color – Villainous.” This wickedly fun edition brings the sinister stories of more than a dozen Disney villains to life through stunning effects and music. Villains showcased in the show include Ursula, Scar, Gaston, Jafar, Maleficent, and others.
While details have not been confirmed, it is likely the show will have some updates and enhancements added since its previous run. The return of World of Color represents the magic of Disney entertainment and storytelling that fans have missed for over two years at Disneyland Resort.
Show Schedule
When World of Color returns on September 2, 2022, it will be presented multiple times each night. The show times will be:
- 9:00 pm
- 10:15 pm
- 11:30 pm on most nights
The schedule allows guests to plan their evenings in the park around securing a spot to view one of the shows. Since there is high demand, securing a FastPass ticket for World of Color is highly recommended for the best viewing experience.
Tips for Seeing the Show
Here are some helpful tips for guests who want to see World of Color:
- Arrive early – At least 90 minutes before showtime to line up for a good viewing spot.
- Get a FastPass – FastPasses are distributed early in the day near Grizzly River Run.
- Pick a viewing spot – The best places are along the waterfront and around Paradise Park.
- Use the mobile ordering app – To avoid losing your spot for snacks and dinner.
- Check the weather – Bring jackets or ponchos if rain or wind is forecasted.
- Use the restroom – Before the show starts because you won’t be able to leave once it begins.
- Bring entertainment – Playing cards, coloring books, etc. to keep kids occupied while waiting.
- Protect valuables – Bring ziplock bags for electronics in case of splash from fountains.
- Have fun! – Sing and dance along with the music and amazing effects.
Food & Drink Options
Disneyland offers unique food and beverage items perfect for enjoying during World of Color. Here are some of the best options:
Location | Item | Description |
---|---|---|
Cocina Cucamonga | Colorful Cucamonga Cocoa | Hot cocoa with whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles |
Pacific Wharf Cafe | Paradise Garden Salad | Grilled chicken salad with tangy passionfruit dressing |
Carthay Circle | Snow White’s Enchanted Apple Freeze | Apple juice slushy with mango foam |
Smokejumpers Grill | Maleficent Waffle Cone | Purple soft-serve waffle cone with chocolate horns |
Guests can mobile order from the app to avoid losing their World of Color viewing spot. There are also several lounge and dining package options available to enhance the show experience.
Merchandise for the Return
Disney is also releasing new World of Color merchandise to commemorate the return of the show. Some items include:
- World of Color hooded sweatshirt
- Mickey ears headband with the show logo
- Water globe with the “Villainous” show scenes
- Lagoon fountain projector light
- Paradise Bay scene print and frame set
The merchandise is a great way for fans to celebrate and remember the magic of World of Color. Many items are available now on the Disneyland app and at select stores in the parks.
Conclusion
The long-awaited return of World of Color at Disney California Adventure starts September 2nd, 2022. The dazzling nighttime spectacular will once again illuminate Paradise Bay with stunning water effects, lights, lasers, fire, fog, and music. Be sure to check the schedule and utilize FastPasses and dining packages to maximize your World of Color experience. This spectacular show is a beloved Disney entertainment offering that fans can finally enjoy once more as part of the Disney100 celebration.