Mysterious Black Ring Hovers Over Disneyland Resort

On the morning of November 14th, 2025, drivers on Interstate 5 encountered an unusual sight over the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim. Lori Nayahalski, a local resident, captured photographs and video of a black ring rising over the theme park around 6:30 a.m.

Nayahalski described the ring as not dissipating and not being a flock of birds, leaving her unsure if it was "real-life Matrix or just an orchestrated spoof." However, Disneyland has provided a simple explanation for the peculiar sighting.

The theme park confirmed that the black ring was in fact smoke from the pyrotechnics used during its nighttime spectaculars, such as World of Color at Disney California Adventure and Fantasmic! at Disneyland Park. The ring was the result of routine testing that took place before the park opened for the day.

While the sight may have been unexpected for drivers on the interstate, Disneyland's frequent parkgoers are likely familiar with the occasional appearance of these smoke rings over the resort. The theme park's nighttime shows rely on pyrotechnics to create a dazzling visual experience, and the pre-opening testing ensures everything is ready for the evening's performances.