By Kathleen Lee
Disney California Adventure Park kicked off Lunar New Year Festival this week! Happening now until February 18, 2024, the park is adorned with festive decorations, delightful Asian inspired food offerings, rare character meet and greets, and cultural entertainment honoring this festive time. Here are five unforgettable experiences you won’t want to miss during the DCA Lunar New Year Festival.
1. Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession:
It’s the year of the dragon. Mushu and Mulan have a joyous processional you cannot miss! Step into the heart of Chinese culture with Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession, a dazzling parade that marches its way through Disney California Adventure Park. Join Mulan, accompanied by a host of colorful and traditional performers, as they bring to life the spirit of the New Year. The procession is a visual feast of vibrant costumes, intricate choreography, and uplifting music, making it a celebration highlight fans return each year to witness it. This 6 minute long parade is perfect for the whole family. Check the Disneyland mobile ap on the day of your visit for the most accurate information.
2. Savor Culinary Delights:
No celebration is complete without indulging in delectable delights, and the Lunar New Year Festival at Disney California Adventure Park is no exception. Experience the festival booths that offer a mouthwatering array of Asian-inspired dishes throughout the festival, each carefully crafted to honor the season’s flavors. The diverse menu caters to various tastes, from traditional Chinese dumplings to Korean fried rice. Be sure to explore the festival marketplaces and savor the unique and festive treats that showcase the culinary diversity of the Lunar New Year.
Experience a flavorful journey at Disney California Adventure’s 2024 Lunar New Year celebration with the Sip and Savor Pass. This year they introduced the new scannable option as opposed to the traditional design with attached coupons. The pass is conveniently available for purchase at key locations like the Sip and Savor cart, Elias & Co., Julius Katz & Sons, Rushin’ River Outfitters, Seaside Souvenirs, and Festival Merchandise. With this pass, guests can effortlessly redeem six coupons at diverse kiosks throughout the festival, unlocking a tempting array of food and nonalcoholic beverage options.
The Sip and Savor Pass streamlines the festival experience by eliminating the need for multiple transactions. Priced at $46 for regular guests and $43 for Magic Key holders. In celebration of the Year of the Dragon, this year’s pass features Mushu from the 1998 animated film, “Mulan.”
All of the drinks and snacks from the festival are available to enjoy from January 23rd to Febuary 18th. Try the Tiger Milk Boba Tea with brown sugar (Nonalcoholic) at Paradise Garden Grill Restaurant. At Bamboo Blessings (festival booth) you can get the popular Mickey Mouse Hot Dog Bun! This fan-favorite Brioche-style Mickey Mouse-shaped bun is stuffed with hot dog pieces and garnished with sesame seeds and scallions.
3. Rare Characters to Meet:
The newest Characters to arrive in DCA are from Pixar’s Turning Red, Mei Mei and her mother Ming. Meet the red panda near the Little Mermaid attraction and the newest meet and greet location for this festival.
Mickey and Minnie Mouse don their Lunar New Year attire each festival. Dressed in vibrant and culturally inspired outfits, these beloved Disney characters add an extra touch of magic to the celebration. Their festive outfits pay homage to the traditions of the Lunar New Year and serve as a delightful reminder of the cultural significance of this special occasion. Seize the opportunity to capture memorable photos with the duo near Paradise Gardens. You can also meet Mulan and Mushu here too! Characters will periodically switch out throughout the day. This is a great location to get autographs and photos with the whole family as their is a DisneyPhoto Pass photographer available here.
4. Interactive Crafts and Activities:
Engage in hands-on fun and creativity at the Lunar New Year celebration’s interactive craft stations and activities. Perfect for families and children, these experiences offer a chance to participate in traditional Lunar New Year customs. From crafting your own New Year’s wish to getting hand drawn Chinese calligraphy. The interactive elements of the celebration allow guests to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of Lunar New Year and take home personalized mementos of the experience.
5. Joyful Entertainment and Cultural Performances:
Throughout Disney California Adventure Park, guests can enjoy a variety of live performances and cultural demonstrations that showcase the diversity of Asian traditions. From energetic drum performances to graceful instrumentals of Melody of China, the entertainment offerings during the Lunar New Year celebration are mesmerizing and educational.
Do not miss Hurry Home- A Lunar New Year Celebration the six-minute World of Color Preshow happening nightly from January 23- February 18th. See Mulan and friends in this dazzling nighttime water spectacular honoring tradition, family, and friendship.
Disney California Adventure Park’s Lunar New Year celebration offers a magical blend of entertainment, culinary delights, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit event for guests of all ages. Whether you’re captivated by the lively processional, indulging in delicious treats, or participating in interactive activities, the Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure Park is a festive and culturally enriching experience that celebrates the traditions of this joyous season. Don’t miss the opportunity to ring in the Year of the Dragon with the magic and enchantment only Disney can provide.
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