The Disneyland Resort in California is turning the page on a quarter-century of wonder as Disney California Adventure Park, the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and the Downtown Disney District prepare to mark 25 years of storytelling, sunshine and starry-eyed memories. With dazzling new experiences, returning fan-favourite attractions, fresh merchandise and foodie treats galore, this milestone is shaping up to be an unmissable celebration that meshes nostalgia with brand-new magic.
At the heart of the festivities, guests stepping onto Buena Vista Street from 6th February will be greeted by Mickey and Minnie in brand-new anniversary outfits. Their costumes draw inspiration from the vibrant hues and energy of the park’s original opening in 2001, with sun motifs and a colour palette that radiates pure California charm.
A beloved attraction is returning, too. Soarin’ Over California, the iconic hang-gliding flight that carries riders over golden landscapes and sweeping coastal vistas, will be back for a limited run from 6th February through 1st July. It’s a nostalgic blast from the past for longtime fans and a breathtaking introduction for first-timers.
Characters and experiences don’t stop at costumes and rides. Humphrey the Bear – the snack-loving grizzly who has romped through classic animated shorts – is making his first ever Disney Parks appearance at Storytellers Café inside the Grand Californian. He’ll be greeting guests during the “Donald’s Tales of Adventure” dinner buffet, adding an adorably mischievous twist to mealtime meet-and-greets.
For collectors and snack lovers, the anniversary season has some particularly geek-worthy offerings. A Pixar Pal-A-Round popcorn bucket with “Magic Inside” tech will light up and change patterns as you roam the parks. Special food and drink items are also on the menu. Everything from confetti-strewn cake shakes to indulgent croissants which add a delicious layer of celebration to every visit.
Shopping aficionados will find limited-edition goodies across the resort. A new Disney California Adventure 25th Anniversary Collection drops on 6th February, stocked with hats, apparel, collectible pins and more. Free commemorative maps will be handed out on 8th February, while stocks last, and Downtown Disney is joining the party with celebration totes and exclusive pins of its own.
Magic Key passholders are not left out of the revelry. A special event from 5th to 15th February invites them to celebrate with themed photo opportunities and gifts designed to evoke a classic California road-trip feel, adding a slice of retro cool to the festivities.
All of this jubilation unfurls alongside Disneyland Resort’s ongoing 70th Anniversary celebration, making early 2026 one of the most momentous years in recent Disney history. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia on a returning ride, meeting a beloved bear for the first time, or sipping a sparkle-topped treat under the sunshine, this 25th anniversary celebration blends the best of yesterday with the promise of tomorrow.