5_10_DL_9006PAMonstrous Summer fun kicks off this Friday at Disney Parks with a 24-hour, nonstop event. Disneyland and California Adventure – and Disney World in Orlando, for those on the East Coast – will be open 24 hours beginning at 6 a.m. this Friday. That’s not all, Disneyland is unveiling an all-new, all-ages live show in Fantasyland this Saturday.

The 24-hour Monstrous Summer event will get everyone into the spirit of the upcoming film Monsters University, set to be released June 21. Both Disneyland and California Adventure will be open from 6 a.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Saturday. This won’t be like the old school Grad Nights: expect a lot of people. On one hand, big crowds, on the other, riding Radiator Springs Racers  at 3 a.m. You can sleep for the rest of the weekend…

…Or you can make it to the Fantasyland Theatre for Mickey and the Magical Map, featuring Disney’s perfect blend of live-action and theatrical technology. The show follows a curious Apprentice Mickey, who taps into his map’s magical powers, taking the audience on a fantastic journey to any place imaginable. The show features beloved Disney characters and music. With five performances daily, the show will fit into any schedule. Sometimes young kids cannot stay up for fireworks, making the daytime shows a great place to experience top notch Disney storytelling.

Mickey and the Magical Map will join Fantasy Faire, a new themed area with Disney Princess encounters and two live shows based on favorite princess stories.

The new live shows are a welcome addition. Not only are they entertaining, they are a great place when younger kids (or maybe adults) want a change of pace from the rides. Sit back and let Disney take you on an adventure of classic stories retold with a fresh twist.

Photo by Paul Auyeung/Disneyland

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