Disney has revealed a new look for everyone’s favorite fairy ahead of next week.
Tinker Bell has long been one of Disney’s most enduring icons. Since her debut in the 1953 animated classic Peter Pan, she has evolved from a mischievous sidekick into a symbol of Disney magic itself. Her signature pixie dust and sparkling silhouette have graced everything from the opening credits of Disney films to the nightly fireworks shows at Disney parks. In fact, Tinker Bell’s flight over Sleeping Beauty Castle during Disneyland’s fireworks has become a beloved tradition since it began in 1961.
In the parks, Tinker Bell remains a fan favorite. Guests can meet her at Pixie Hollow in Disneyland (when it’s actually open, at least) and at Town Square Theater in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. She also plays a central role in nighttime spectaculars, often soaring above the crowds to kick off the fireworks. Her presence is a testament to her popularity and the magic she brings to Disney experiences.
Last year, rumors circulated online suggesting that Disney had removed Tinker Bell from its parks due to concerns about her being a “problematic” character. However, these claims were swiftly debunked. According to a Disney spokesperson, while Tinker Bell’s meet-and-greet sessions at Walt Disney World were temporarily halted in early 2024, her presence would continue on both coasts.
Two years prior, there were whispers that Disney had internally flagged Tinker Bell as a character of concern due to the fact that she is jealous of Peter Pan’s attention toward Wendy and “body-conscious.”
Disney Pushes Ahead With Tinker Bell Update
As of next week, Tinker Bell will look a little bit different.
On May 16, Disneyland Resort will kick off the latest run of Paint the Night – the beloved nighttime parade that previously ran at Disneyland, then California Adventure, and is now returning to its home park ahead of its 70th anniversary celebration.
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
As usual, Tinker Bell will open the parade. However, her look has been given an extra touch of pixie dust. As per the before and after images shared by Scott Gustin, Tinker Bell’s dress is significantly more detailed this time around, with yellow lights interspersed with the previous green pattern.
Other changes confirmed for Paint the Night include the return of the Frozen (2013) float, which was previously axed due to its height not working with the space constraints at California Adventure. The Incredibles float brought in as its replacement is unfortunately set to be scrapped.
The rest of the parade will be bulked out with parade floats featuring characters such as Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Lightning McQueen, and, of course, Mickey Mouse himself, all set to the soundtrack of “When Can I See You Again?” by Owl City.
Other Changes Heading to Disneyland Resort
Disneyland’s 70th anniversary celebrations officially begin May 16, and Paint the Night is just the beginning. The resort is also bringing back the fan-favorite fireworks show Wondrous Journeys, known for its soaring score and emotional nods to Walt Disney Animation. First launched for Disney100, the show will run with pyrotechnics on select nights throughout the summer, lighting up the skies above Sleeping Beauty Castle.
The anniversary also marks the debut of Walt Disney: A Magical Life, a brand-new stage show featuring the first-ever Audio-Animatronic figure of Walt Disney himself. Set to open in July inside the Main Street Opera House (having been delayed from its original May opening date), the experience will blend robotics and multimedia storytelling to trace Walt’s life—from sketching Mickey to building Disneyland. The experience has, however, sparked controversy with some fans.
Disney California Adventure is joining the 70th-anniversary festivities with the debut of “World of Color – Happiness!” and its new dessert parties. This all-new nighttime spectacular celebrates Disney’s rich storytelling legacy through dazzling fountains, projections, and music, offering guests a fresh experience that honors the resort’s milestone. Preluding the show is a safety message from The Muppets (who are coincidentally also celebrating their 70th birthday this year), while the main event will give guests an opportunity to vote for their favorite Inside Out character’s inclusion.
The park also welcomes back the “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” parade, featuring beloved characters like Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the Incredibles. This vibrant daytime procession adds to the celebratory atmosphere, bringing Pixar’s heartwarming stories to life along the parade route.
In true Disney fashion, the celebration won’t stop there. Guests can expect exclusive 70th anniversary merchandise, limited-time snacks, and special photo ops scattered throughout the park. Between Tinker Bell’s new look and the return of beloved entertainment, Disneyland is embracing its past while continuing to evolve—exactly the kind of magic Walt would’ve wanted.
Are you excited for the return of Paint the Night?
The post Disney Debuts New Look For Tinker Bell, Starting Next Week appeared first on Inside the Magic.
