Lunar New Year is officially returning to the Disneyland Resort, and it remains one of my absolute favorite times of year to visit. While I will always love classic seasonal celebrations like Halloween and the Holidays, there is something about the Lunar New Year that feels especially meaningful. It is vibrant, joyful, deeply cultural, and unlike anything else on the Disneyland calendar.
One of the things I love most about this celebration is how it highlights and honors Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures through food, entertainment, and storytelling. As someone who thrives on being surrounded by diversity, both at home in Australia and while traveling, the Lunar New Year always feels like a reminder of why cultural celebration matters. It is through traditions, shared experiences, and, of course, incredible cuisine that we learn about one another. The beauty of humanity lives in those differences, and the Lunar New Year at the Disneyland Resort is a wonderful way to experience that joy firsthand.
In 2026, we are shedding the skin of the Year of the Snake and welcoming power, vitality, and high energy. The Year of the Horse is often associated with personal growth, bold decisions, and forward momentum, which feels like a pretty inspiring theme to kick off the year. As always, I am eagerly awaiting all the details about this yearās celebration, with new entertainment offerings and menu items expected to be revealed soon.
Disney has already given us a small sneak peek that immediately grabbed my attention, especially my inner foodie. Sourdough lovers, this one is for you. If you were a fan of the Boudin Baymax Sourdough from Aunt Cass Cafe, like I was, the new Horse Bread should be at the very top of your must-try list this year. Even at its most fundamental level, there is something comforting and special about themed bread done right, and this one is already shaping up to be a Lunar New Year standout. Seeing new bread options at Disney always gets me in the feels. I’ll never forget standing outside the Boudin Bakery in San Francisco as a kid, staring at all the incredible creations.
Alongside the food and festivities, the Lunar New Year also brings an early look at themed merchandise, and some items have already begun to appear. If you want a closer look at the early Lunar New Year merch release, be sure to check out our earlier coverage to find what we have seen so far and what might be worth adding to your collection.
The Lunar New Year celebration will take place from January 23rd through February 22nd, 2026, at Disney California Adventure Park at the Disneyland Resort. With limited-time food, entertainment, merchandise, and cultural experiences, it is truly one of the most special seasonal offerings of the year. For even more details and updates as they are released, you can find additional coverage with Jackie here. If you are planning a visit during this time, this is one celebration that deserves a spot at the very top of your must-see list.
Feature Image: Disney
