Now in Anaheim, Disney California Adventure is celebrating its 25th Anniversary! If you’ve watched this park grow and transform over the years, this anniversary hits right in the nostalgia feels. The bold expansion of the Disneyland Resort began in 2001. It has since evolved into a park packed with immersive lands.
In 2026, Disney California Adventure Park, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, and Downtown Disney District all celebrate 25 years. The celebration is making its mark with limited-time offerings. There are also retro nods and some very exciting returns.
Here’s what guests can experience during this special anniversary season ✨
Explore Disneyland Resort
Planning a Disneyland Resort vacation can be just as exciting as the destination itself—and a little easier when you know where to start. Whether you’re planning your first visit, returning for another magical trip, or comparing Disneyland with other Disney destinations, our Explore Disneyland is a great place to begin.
Honoring 25 Years of Disney California Adventure
Disney California Adventure officially opened on February 8, 2001. It transformed what was once a simple parking lot into a vibrant second gate. This new gate is filled with attractions, dining, and storytelling inspired by California itself. Since then, over the past two and a half decades, the park has undergone a remarkable evolution. Along the way, major additions such as Cars Land and Pixar Pier have reshaped the guest experience. More recently, the park has continued to expand with immersive lands like Avengers Campus. San Fransokyo Square has also been added. These expansions further solidify its identity and growth.
In celebration of that journey, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are on Buena Vista Street. They are greeting guests in all-new anniversary outfits. Beginning February 6, 2026, as part of the Disney California Adventure 25th Anniversary celebration, their looks feature sun motifs. Their looks also showcase a vibrant color palette. Not only do these designs call back to the park’s earliest days. They also symbolize optimism, creativity, and golden possibilities.
As a result, this anniversary touch becomes a subtle yet meaningful tribute. Longtime fans, in particular, are sure to appreciate this.
Soarin’ Over California Returns (For a Limited Time!)
The anniversary celebration includes many highlights. The return of Soarin’ Over California is one exciting event. This attraction helped define Disney California Adventure from day one.
From now through July 1, 2026, guests can once again soar over iconic California landmarks like:
- The Golden Gate Bridge
- Yosemite National Park
- Palm Springs
- Downtown Los Angeles
All set to that sweeping, emotional score fans know and love.
And looking ahead: on July 2, 2026, Disney will debut Soarin’ Across America. It is a brand-new experience created in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. This year is a true turning point for the Soarin’ franchise.
Anniversary Eats, Collectibles & Must-Have Merchandise
Because no Disney celebration is complete without snacks and souvenirs…
Limited-Time Treats
From now through February 15, 2026, Schmoozies! will offer a decadent 25th Anniversary Cake Shake. It features strawberry icing, sprinkles, and whipped topping. An entire slice of cake is blended right in. Yes—it’s as indulgent as it sounds.
Pixar Pal-A-Round Anniversary Bucket
One of the most unique souvenirs Disney has released in years is the Pixar Pal-A-Round Bucket. This collectible is modeled after the iconic Ferris wheel. It includes embedded “Magic Inside” technology. This technology allows it to react to select locations across both Disneyland Resort parks.
The bucket changes color and lighting patterns throughout the parks and even enhances certain nighttime spectaculars. It’s available now, while supplies last, at select food and vending locations throughout Disney California Adventure.
25th Anniversary Merchandise Collection
A special Disney California Adventure 25th Anniversary Collection is available now and includes apparel plus three collectible pins. The artwork features stylized illustrations of beloved park icons like:
- Carthay Circle
- Pixar Pal-A-Round
- Grizzly Peak
You’ll find the collection at Elias & Co., Gone Hollywood, and Seaside Souvenirs while supplies last.
A Commemorative Keepsake for the Big Day
On February 8, 2026, guests who entered Disney California Adventure received a complimentary commemorative park map. It celebrates the park’s 25th anniversary.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Celebrates 25 Years
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is unique. It was the first Disney hotel built directly inside a theme park. Since welcoming its first guests in early 2001, it has become one of Disneyland Resort’s most iconic and beloved hotels.
A New Character Debut at Storytellers Café
Right now, guests dining at Storytellers Café will meet a brand-new character during Donald’s Tales of Adventure Dinner Buffet. The character is Humphrey the Bear.
This mischievous, snack-loving bear is a classic Disney animated character whose antics have delighted fans for decades. Reservations for Storytellers Café are highly recommended and can be made up to 60 days in advance.
Limited Edition Anniversary Pin
Pin collectors should stay alert for a limited edition Grand Californian 25th Anniversary pin. It is available at Acorns Gifts & Goods. Chip ’n’ Dale are featured in front of the hotel’s Craftsman-style façade. This creates a perfect blend of playful and elegant—just like the hotel itself.
Downtown Disney District Joins the Celebration
Downtown Disney District also turns 25 in 2026 and is celebrating with:
- A limited-time anniversary tote and pin featuring the district’s new logo
- Specialty foods and drinks tied to the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration
Highlights include Bananas Foster beignets and macaron croissants. Specialty cocktails are also featured. There are even enhanced Wetzel’s Pretzel Bitz. These are all available for limited times throughout spring and summer.
A Fantastic Time to Plan a Disneyland Vacation
The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration is happening alongside these 25th anniversary offerings. Early 2026 is one of the best times to plan a Disneyland vacation.
Guests may also find:
- Special California resident ticket offers
- Hotel discounts at Disneyland Resort hotels
- Vacation packages at over 50 Disney-approved Good Neighbor Hotels
Availability and discounts change often, which is why working with a travel advisor can make all the difference.
Continue Planning Your Disneyland Vacation
Enjoyed this article? Keep exploring! Here are a few more Disneyland Resort resources to help you put the pieces together:
- Downtown Disney Guide: Magic Outside the Parks
- Disneyland Resort Hotels: Which One is Right for You?
- Top Holiday Events at Disneyland
- Dining at Disneyland: Our Reviews
Looking for a bigger picture? Head back to our Disneyland Resort Vacation Planning Guide for more resources to help you plan from start to finish.
Ready to Plan Your Disneyland Adventure?
You’ve done the research. Now it’s time to start putting your vacation together!
If you’d rather spend your time dreaming about Disneyland than sorting through all the details, our friends at DizN Vacations can help you turn your plans into a real vacation. Their team can help with booking, planning, and keeping an eye out for applicable promotions.
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