Lunar New Year at Disneyland has grown into one of the resort’s most beloved seasonal events, blending Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese traditions with Disney’s signature storytelling. In 2026, the celebration runs January 23 through February 22, transforming Disney California Adventure into a colorful world of lanterns, music, and good‑fortune festivities.
A Festival Filled With Energy and Tradition
The Year of the Horse symbolizes strength, speed, and optimism—traits reflected throughout the festival’s entertainment and décor. Guests entering the park are greeted by vibrant red and gold banners, horse‑themed artwork, and festive music that sets the tone for the celebration. Characters such as Mickey and Minnie appear in Lunar New Year attire, while special guests like Mulan and Mushu lead cultural tributes that honor the holiday’s roots.
One of the most anticipated moments each year is Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession, a lively parade featuring dancers, drummers, and a magnificent dragon that winds its way through the park. The show blends tradition with Disney magic, creating a heartfelt tribute to family, heritage, and new beginnings.
Flavors of the New Year
Food is at the heart of Lunar New Year, and Disneyland embraces this with a lineup of marketplace booths serving Asian‑inspired dishes crafted just for the festival. From savory noodles to sweet holiday treats, each booth offers a unique twist on traditional flavors. The 2026 menus highlight Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean influences, giving guests a chance to taste their way through the celebration. Restaurants across the resort also join in, offering limited‑time dishes that complement the festival’s culinary theme. Whether you’re sampling small bites or sitting down for a full meal, the food becomes part of the storytelling—rich, symbolic, and full of meaning.
To make tasting your way through the festival even easier, Disneyland offers the Sip and Savor Pass, a prepaid lanyard featuring multiple tabs that can be redeemed for select food and non‑alcoholic beverages at the Lunar New Year marketplaces. It’s a favorite among returning guests because it encourages exploration, helps manage costs, and turns the culinary side of the celebration into a fun, choose‑your‑own‑adventure experience. Whether you’re sampling noodles, plant‑based bites, or sweet festival treats, the pass lets you enjoy more flavors without committing to full‑size portions.
What We Know So Far
Disney’s official 2026 Lunar New Year page confirms that the Sip and Savor Pass:
- Includes six digital coupons redeemable for select food and non‑alcoholic drinks at festival marketplaces.
- Comes in three limited‑edition designs themed to Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean cultures.
- Is valid throughout the January 23 – February 22, 2026 celebration.
Characters and Cultural Connections
This year brings a special spotlight to Horace Horsecollar, who appears in attire inspired by traditional Chinese fashion to honor the Year of the Horse. He joins a lineup of beloved characters, including Red Panda Mei, Mulan, Mushu, and of course Mickey and Minnie, who greet guests in beautifully designed Lunar New Year outfits.
These appearances create some of the most memorable photo opportunities of the season, blending Disney charm with cultural celebration.
Nighttime Magic and Wishes for the New Year
As evening falls, the festival continues with Hurry Home – A Lunar New Year Celebration, a touching pre‑show that plays before World of Color. The story follows a little lantern on its journey home for the holiday, accompanied by music, water effects, and glowing imagery that captures the spirit of reunion and hope.
Guests can also visit the Wishing Wall, where they write down hopes for the coming year—an interactive tradition that adds a personal touch to the celebration.
Whether you’re drawn to the cultural performances, the limited‑time food, or the festive atmosphere, Lunar New Year at Disneyland offers something meaningful for every visitor. The Year of the Horse brings an extra layer of excitement, symbolizing forward momentum and joyful energy—perfect themes for a new year at the Happiest Place on Earth.
