Disney has done it again. The entertainment giant is set to host its first–ever Pride Nites event at the California–based theme park in June.
The two–night event, dubbed “Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite,” is the first of its kind to be held in the park and will extend from June 13th to June 15th.
“The first-ever Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite is coming to @Disneyland during Pride Month in June,” stated Disney via a brand account. “This separately ticketed event celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community and allies will have themed entertainment, Disney characters, specialty menu items & more.”
The first-ever Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite is coming to @Disneyland during Pride Month in June! This separately ticketed event celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community & allies will have themed entertainment, Disney characters, specialty menu items & more: https://t.co/Y6vOJ3QXms pic.twitter.com/j97sB1kHod
— Disney (@Disney) April 17, 2023
The event is set to feature a plethora of entertainment, including a Pride Night Cavalcade, an Ohana Dance Party in Tomorrowland featuring Stitch, a Pride Night Dance Club at the Rivers of America and a country line dancing event at the Golden Horseshoe.
Disney characters will also be available throughout the events to take photos with guests, as well as a pre–event mixer party from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and the main event from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
The news has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters of the event have praised Disney‘s move, calling it a step in the right direction for LGBTQIA+ rights, and an important show of solidarity.
On the other hand, critics of the event have argued that Disney is pandering to the left and engaging in virtue–signaling rather than making a meaningful contribution to the LGBTQIA+ cause.
The event comes as tensions between Disney and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis heat up. DeSantis has vowed to ensure the entertainment giant follows the same laws and regulations as other businesses in his state and has accused the corporation of self–governance and autonomy.
Only time will tell if this event will be a success, but it is definitely one to watch. The Pride Nites event could be a historic milestone for the LGBTQIA+ cause and a sign of Disney‘s commitment to equality, or it could be a publicity stunt that backfires.
