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Disneyland Says Black Smoke Ring Was From Pre-Opening Pyrotechnic Test

The early-morning sighting coincided with the resort's holiday lineup, which features nighttime shows that use pyrotechnic effects.

Overview

  • Park officials told KTLA the ring resulted from routine testing conducted before opening on Nov. 13.
  • Photographer Lori Nayahalski captured the formation around 6:30 a.m. over Anaheim as Interstate 5 drivers noticed the scene.
  • The circular plume formed from pyrotechnic effects used in nighttime spectaculars including World of Color and Fantasmic!.
  • Images circulated widely online and drew UFO-themed jokes and speculation before Disneyland provided its explanation.
  • The clarification comes as the resort rolls out holiday programming running from Nov. 14 through Jan. 7, 2026.