Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and immerse yourself in vibrant traditions at Disneyland’s Lunar New Year celebration! From January 23rd to February 18th, 2024, the park transforms into a multicultural wonderland, offering a smorgasbord of Asian-inspired flavors, captivating entertainment, and delightful surprises around every corner. So, grab your chopsticks, dust off your dancing shoes, and prepare to be wowed!
Foodie Frenzy: A Culinary Adventure Awaits!
Disneyland’s Lunar New Year isn’t just a visual feast; it’s a culinary carnival for your senses! Dive into a world of vibrant marketplaces bursting with exotic aromas and tempting treats. Each booth unveils a unique taste of Asia, from steaming pork buns with black garlic sauce to spicy fried rice with tofu and plant-based kung pao bao. Don’t miss the Quesabirria Eggroll with its savory guajillo pepper consomé, or indulge in the Strawberry Milk Tea Macaron, a delightful fusion of creamy sweetness.
But the culinary adventure doesn’t stop there! Venture beyond Paradise Gardens Park to discover hidden gems like Walnut Shrimp at Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, a sweet and tangy treat that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Tortilla Jo’s whips up sticky-sweet Sweet and Sour Ribs, while Lamplight Lounge tempts you with crispy Pork Belly Kung Pao Bao.
Cultural Captivation: A Celebration of Traditions!
Disneyland’s Lunar New Year celebration isn’t just about the food; it’s a vibrant tapestry of cultural experiences. Witness the grandeur of Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession, a dazzling spectacle featuring costumed performers, energetic dancers, and a majestic Chinese dragon puppet. Immerse yourself in the joy of the celebration with captivating musical acts, storytelling sessions, and interactive activities. Learn the art of Chinese calligraphy, marvel at intricate paper cuttings, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere.
And guess what? You might even bump into some rare and beloved Disney characters along the way! Snap a selfie with Mickey and Minnie Mouse in their stunning Lunar New Year attire, or say hello to Meilin Lee and Ming Lee from the hit movie “Turning Red.” Who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of the courageous Raya from “Raya and the Last Dragon”!
Entertainment Extravaganza: Let the Festivities Begin!
Get ready to be dazzled by a kaleidoscope of entertainment options! Sing along to live music, be captivated by traditional Chinese lion dances, or let your inner child loose at the Lucky Wishing Wall, where you can write your hopes and dreams for the new year. Paradise Gardens transforms into a hub of fun, with complimentary crafts, storytelling sessions, and even demonstrations of Chinese calligraphy.
Don’t miss the heartwarming Hurry Home – Lunar New Year Celebration, a six-minute prelude show to World of Color that tells the story of Little Lantern’s journey home and the importance of family and friendship. And of course, no Lunar New Year celebration is complete without the mesmerizing pyrotechnics and dancing water fountains of World of Color itself – prepare to be awestruck!
Souvenirs & More: Take Home a Piece of the Magic!
Commemorate your unforgettable Lunar New Year adventure with a treasure trove of exclusive souvenirs. From stylish spirit jerseys and themed Minnie Mouse ears to adorable Mickey plushes and traditional red envelope sets, there’s something for everyone to cherish. These delightful keepsakes will remind you of the delicious food, vibrant music, and heartwarming traditions you experienced at Disneyland.
Insider Tips for a Foodie-tastic Adventure:
Plan your visit:
Weekends and peak dining times can get crowded, so consider visiting during weekdays or using mobile ordering for some booths.
Sip and Savor Pass:
This pass is an excellent way to sample multiple dishes without breaking the bank.
Download the Disneyland app:
Stay updated on character appearance times, entertainment schedules, and special events.
Bring your walking shoes:
There’s so much to see and do, so be prepared to explore the park on foot.
Most importantly, relax and have fun! Disneyland’s Lunar New Year celebration is a whirlwind of cultural delights, culinary adventures, and magical surprises. But there’s more to discover than meets the eye! Here are some hidden gems and insider tips to make your experience even more special:
Secret Eats:
Lucky 8 Lantern’s Banh Mi Pizza:
This unexpected fusion marries Neapolitan dough with Vietnamese flavors like marinated pork, pickled veggies, and spicy mayo. Prepare for a flavor explosion!
Bamboo Blessings’ Taro Iced Vietnamese Coffee:
Refreshing and creamy, this drink combines the earthy sweetness of taro with the robust kick of Vietnamese coffee. A perfect pick-me-up on a sunny day.
Wetzel’s Pretzels’ Lucky Red Envelope Surprise:
Purchase any pretzel and you might just score a special in-app offer – think discounts, bonus points, or even free treats!
Character Encounters:
Redwood Creek Challenge Trail: Keep your eyes peeled for Mushu! He’s hiding out near the Lunar New Year decorations, ready to snap a photo with any adventurous fans.
Paradise Gardens Park: Look for Mulan and Mushu mingling with guests near the Lucky Wishing Wall. They’re always up for a friendly chat and a photo op.
Surprise Appearances: Disneyland loves surprising its guests! Be on the lookout for unexpected character encounters throughout the park – you never know who you might bump into!
Hidden Entertainment:
Paradise Gardens Park: This festive hub hosts live music, storytelling sessions, and even Chinese calligraphy demonstrations. Don’t miss the Chinese lion dance performances – they’re energetic and full of good luck!
Lucky Wishing Wall: Write your hopes and dreams for the new year on a brightly colored paper lantern and add them to the wall. It’s a beautiful way to share your wishes and soak in the positive vibes.
Festival Merchandise: Don’t just admire the cute Lunar New Year souvenirs; some feature interactive elements! For example, some spirit jerseys change color in sunlight, and certain Minnie Mouse ears light up or play music.
Bonus Tips:
Disneyland Magic Key Holders:
Enjoy a special Magic Keyholder lanyard if you purchase the Sip and Savor Pass. Plus, you might score exclusive discounts on Lunar New Year treats!
Mobile Ordering:
Many of the popular food booths offer mobile ordering. This can save you time in line, especially during peak hours.
Free Activities:
Paradise Gardens Park is the heart of the celebration and offers plenty of free activities, making it a budget-friendly way to experience the Lunar New Year magic.
So, there you have it! Beyond the delicious food and dazzling characters, Disneyland’s Lunar New Year celebration is packed with hidden gems and insider tips waiting to be discovered. Grab your family and friends, embrace the festive spirit, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Remember, the Lunar New Year is a time for celebrating new beginnings, good fortune, and the joy of togetherness. Let Disneyland’s vibrant celebration fill your heart with warmth and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Co-Founder of the OFT Blog. Mother of 2 who disguises as a 9 to 5 finance professional on most days. She loves to travel, is an amateur website builder and cook. And given her day job, she loves travel planning and saving money. Follow along!
