2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years Disneyland has seen in decades. With Bluey’s arrival, the 70th Celebration continuing, and major expansion projects finally breaking ground, guests will find new reasons to visit almost every month. Festivals, after-hours events, returning entertainment, and big-picture investments all point to a milestone year for the resort.
What’s New, What’s Returning, and What You Need to Plan Now
Disneyland just revealed everything coming in 2026—and it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in recent memory. With the historic 70th Celebration continuing, Bluey making her West Coast debut, new festivals, expanded after‑hours events, and massive expansions beginning across the resort, 2026 looks like a year packed with reasons to visit.
Here’s your complete Sam’s Disney Diary breakdown of everything announced.
Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration Continues Through August 9, 2026
Disneyland’s milestone 70th celebration rolls on into 2026, with fan‑favorite entertainment returning early in the year. Beginning in January, guests can once again enjoy:
- The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade
- Wondrous Journeys
- Paint the Night Parade
Mickey, Minnie, and friends will continue appearing in their 70th Celebration outfits through August 9, the final day of the anniversary festivities.
Bluey Makes Her Disneyland Park Debut on March 22, 2026
One of the biggest announcements is the arrival of Bluey and Bingo, who will bring an all‑new immersive experience to the Fantasyland Theatre starting March 22.
Fantasyland Theatre becomes Bluey’s school as “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” comes to life. Guests can expect:
- Live appearances from Bluey and Bingo throughout the day
- A cast of comedic actors and musicians leading interactive game segments
- Musical moments inspired by iconic Bluey episodes
- Life‑sized play spaces including a Gnome Village and Fairy Garden
- Guest‑favorite characters like The Grannies, Chattermax, and Unicorse
- Bluey‑themed foods at Troubadour Tavern
- This will be a major family draw throughout 2026.
2026 Festival & Seasonal Celebration Lineup
Lunar New Year (Jan 23–Feb 22)
Ring in the Year of the Horse with Horace Horsecollar, new character outfits inspired by Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean attire, and opportunities to meet a character from Turning Red.
Celebrate Gospel (Feb 20–21 & Feb 27–28)
Now moving to Downtown Disney District, this uplifting showcase will feature community choirs and headliners Hezekiah Walker and Yolanda Adams.
Anaheim Ducks Day (Feb 22)
A fan‑favorite day of hockey‑themed fun returns to Disney California Adventure.
Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival (Mar 6–Apr 27)
Expect food marketplaces, culinary demonstrations, seminars, and family‑friendly entertainment.
Disney On the Yard – Yardfest (June 19)
A celebration of HBCU traditions returns with drum majors, Drum Major Mickey, and live performances.
D23 Day at Disneyland Resort (August 13)
Guests visiting that day will find surprises, special moments, and fan‑focused experiences.
Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party (August 13–16)
One day at California Adventure, followed by a three‑day Downtown Disney celebration.
Halloween Time (Aug 21–Oct 31)
Seasonal décor, attraction overlays, entertainment, and pumpkin‑themed surprises.
Plaza de la Familia (Aug 21–Nov 2)
The celebration honoring Coco returns with music, art, and storytelling.
Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (Begins Nov 18)
Holiday décor, festive foods, Disney Festival of Holidays, and seasonal entertainment.
2026 After‑Hours Events
If you love Disneyland After Dark, 2026 brings a full slate of five themes, including one brand‑new offering.
Disneyland After Dark Themes
- Sweethearts’ Nite (Jan 22–Feb 17)
- 70 Years of Favorites – NEW (Mar 3 & 5)
- Disney Channel Nite (Apr 12, 14, 16)
- Star Wars Nite (Apr 28, Apr 30, May 4, May 6)
- Pride Nite (Jun 16 & 18)
Oogie Boogie Bash – 2026 Dates
A huge list of dates across August, September, and October ensures plenty of chances to attend the fan‑favorite Halloween party.
New Attractions and Resort‑Wide Enhancements
New Mission for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
In 2026, Smugglers Run introduces a brand‑new story mission. Details are in our full breakdown (linked in a future blog), but expect fresh characters and new opportunities to relive the Falcon run.
Soarin’ Across America Begins July 2, 2026
In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, Soarin’ returns with an all‑new U.S.‑focused flight, showcasing iconic American landscapes and landmarks.
Downtown Disney District Expands
Arriving in 2026:
- Earl of Sandwich
- Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby
- lululemon
These join 2025 additions like Parkside Market and Disney Wonderful World of Sweets.
Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour
Ride in the historic Lilly Belle and learn about Walt Disney’s passion for trains.
Future Expansions Begin Construction in 2026
Disneyland Resort’s long‑term expansion officially enters construction in 2026, including:
- The first‑ever attraction themed to Pixar’s Coco
- A future Avatar destination
- Expansion of Avengers Campus
- Major work across the Esplanade and Disney California Adventure
These projects represent the biggest expansion moment for Disneyland since the early 2000s.
