Pixar Fest Character Locations Guide

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Pixar Fest is in full swing at the Disneyland Resort and one of the main offerings are the many characters you can potentially interact with. Some of these are the usual suspects you’d regularly see in the parks, while others are making their first ever appearance!

Aside from the food, rare character meet and greets is our favorite part of special events, festivals, and After Dark events Disney puts on throughout the year. Seeing the characters you know and love brought to life and interact with them is priceless and one of the hallmarks of a Disney vacation.

Disney is advertising more than twenty new and familiar characters during Pixar Fest, but keep in mind that you’re not guaranteed to see all of them. Many factors such as staffing, unforeseen circumstances, and the recent unionization of Disneyland performers can impact the amount of characters out at a particular time.

With so many characters to see during Pixar Fest, you may be wondering what characters you can meet at Pixar Fest and their locations. During our visit, we painstakingly sought out as many of them as we could to bring this information to you. We didn’t get pictures of all of them, but we did find out where they are. Do keep in mind that this list isn’t absolute and you should always refer to the Disneyland app day-of for current character information.

Pixar Fest Characters at Disney California Adventure

While the entire resort is on the festivities, much of the event’s offerings are being held at Disney California Adventure. These include many food and drink offerings, Club Pixar, the Better Together Parade, and more. The characters, however, seemed to have been split fairly evenly.

In the backlot area of Hollywood Land, Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl conduct meet and greets in front of a “We Are Incredible” backdrop in their retro suits. While these two are typically seen on a day-to-day basis, namely near the Incredicoaster attraction, you rarely see them in these outfits.

During our visit, we only saw them together one time. Aside from that one time, it was either one or the other. This is going to be an ongoing comment throughout this post as Disney seemed to be suffering from staffing issues while we were there.

One of the bigger character draws during Pixar Fest are Mei and Ming Lee from Turning Red. Prior to Pixar Fest, these two have only made one appearance in the parks and that was during Lunar New Year earlier in the year. Their debut saw hours-long queues.

During Pixar Fest, their meet and greet is set up in front of the waterwheel in Grizzly River Run, just up the way from the Little Mermaid attraction. These two will always do meet and greets together, so just know that when their thirty-minute interval is up, you’ll either need to wait for them to come back or return at a later time.

Disney could potentially have another pair of actors lined up to swap out with them so if that’s the case, you’ll only need to wait a few minutes. If they don’t, it’ll be at about thirty minutes before they’ll come back out. Cast members will keep the queue updated and will usually cut off the queue so folks don’t end up waiting for nothing. It can happen, though. So be prepared for that possibility.

In Pixar Pier, you’ll see many of the usual suspects. These include Woody and Buzz Lightyear, who take photos in front of the Toy Story Mania attraction. Further down the pier and across from the Pixar Pals Fun Wheel in the band shell, there’s a mixed bag of characters that appear. These include:

• Mike and Sulley from Monsters Inc.

• Joy and Sadness from Inside Out

• Anger from Inside Out (Beginning June 14)

• Bo Peep and Jessie from Toy Story

They’re completely random and depend entirely on staffing. On one of the mornings during our visit we were hoping to catch Mike and Sulley together but unfortunately, Sulley was the only character to appear. I asked a cast member if there was any chance for Mike to show and was told that, “Unfortunately, Mike is stuck in traffic in Monstropolis”. You have to admire her commitment to the “bubble”.

Another great way to see characters at DCA is during the Better Together Pixar parade that runs twice daily at DCA. You won’t be able to take pictures with any of them, but the parade is a practical smorgasbord of Pixar characters. Some you’ve seen in the parks before and others you’ve never seen.

A few examples include Joe Gardner from Soul, Carl from Up, Miguel from Coco, Mei Lee in Red Panda form from Turning Red, Luca, Alberto and Giulia from Luca and more. As stated above, the parade runs twice daily and because it hasn’t exactly been the most stellar of Disney’s parade, snagging a prime viewing spot is a fairly easy endeavor. For more information on that, including my recommendations to viewing areas, read my Pixar Fest 2024 Ultimate Guide.

To recap, Pixar Fest characters and locations in DCA are:

• Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl in the Hollywood Land Backlot

• Edna and Frozone near the Incredicoaster attraction

• Lightning McQueen, Mater, and more from Cars near the Cozy Cones in Cars Land

• Mike, Sulley, Bo Peep, Jessie, Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Lotso, Joy, and Sadness throughout Pixar Pier

• Mei and Ming Lee near the Grizzly Peak waterwheel

• Dug (talking version) in the Grizzly Peak area near Redwood Creek Challenge

• *NEW - Beginning June 14, you can now meet Anger (from Inside Out) by the Pixar Pier Band Shell

Additionally, characters you’ll see during the parade include:

• Red Panda from Turning Red

• Carl, Dug, Russell, and Kevin from Up

• Joe Gardner from Soul

• Joy and Sadness from Inside Out

• Luca, Alberto, and Giulia from Luca

• Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl from The Incredibles

• Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie from Toy Story

• Miguel and Dante from Coco

• Mike and Sulley from Monsters Inc

Pixar Fest Characters in Downtown Disney and Resort Hotels

While not exclusively for Pixar Fest, Disney is touting the ability to meet beloved character Bing Bong from the movie, Inside Out, at the Pixar Place Hotel. Bing Bong usually meets guests of the hotel in the pool area but if you’re lucky (like I was) you can sometimes catch him in the lobby of the hotel.

Another character you’ll likely encounter at the hotel is Joe Gardner from Soul. You can often find him playing on the piano in the lobby area across from the registration desk. I’m not sure if he’ll pose for photos with you, but at the very least you can say you watched Joe Gardner play live jazz.

While not live characters, Downtown Disney features two cars cosplaying as Woody and Buzz Lightyear up against a Pixar Fest mural on the former ESPN building. This photo-opp is available to all guests, regardless if you hold a park ticket or not.

As far as characters outside of the parks go, that’s about it. While things could always change in that regard, there are only two months remaining for Pixar Fest at the time of this post’s publishing, so I’m doubtful. Besides, other than the parks and hotel, there are no other locations where a Pixar character meet and greet would make sense.

Pixar Fest Characters at Disneyland Park

DCA may be considered the “Pixar Park”, but Disneyland proper is also getting in on the action. However, the majority of all Pixar Fest characters meet with guests in the same area, and that area is the Fantasyland Theatre across from the it’s a small world attraction.

The meet and greets occur between the hours of 11:30am and 5:30pm daily during the Pixar Pals Playtime Party. It consists of a high-energy stage show featuring many Pixar characters, about a half dozen Pixar-themed photo-opps, and several meet and greets with rare characters.

The first two you’ll likely encounter are Russell and Dug from the movie Up. During our visit, they were greeting guests near the entrance of the theatre, just prior to the official start time of the party. Note that this isn’t the talking version of Dug that you would meet at DCA.

Their official meet and greet area is to the left of the stage, up against the Up-themed backdrop. Again, I’m sure there was a staffing shortage during my visit, as none of the characters were ever out at the same time. It seemed as though the same two or three cast members were pulling double-duty and acting as multiple characters each.

In the upper area of Fantasyland Theatre, just behind the stands, are two additional meet and greets. Both of which are brand new to the parks. They are Ember and Wade from Elemental, and Luca and Alberto from Luca. Unfortunately, Alberto never came out during our time there. We did, however, get some quality time with Luca.

Both Ember and Wade made their appearances together while we were there, but I’ve recently read that both have been making sporadic solo appearances. Again, the recent cast member unionization and/or staffing shortages are the likely culprits. If you have your heart set on a photo with them together, you may have to camp out for the opportunity.

Additional newcomers, Barley (left) and Ian (right) Lightfoot from Onward, are also available for meet and greets in front of Barley’s mighty steed, Guinevere, located to the right of the theatre stage. For us, these two and Ember and Wade were the main highlights.

Much like Russel and Dug, the Lightfoot’s meet and greet area is in the lower level of the theatre, mixed in with all the Pixar-themed backdrops. Don’t get scared away if there’s a performance of the Playtime Party stage show happening, as the brothers will still make their scheduled appearances.

Another character that has been popping up around the theatre lately is Merida from Brave. Based on the photos I’ve seen, she’s been hanging around in the upper area of the theatre, near Troubadore Tavern.

Finally, the Pixar Pals Playtime Party stage show features numerous Pixar characters in a high energy song and dance performance. The show occurs in thirty-minute intervals between 11:30am and 5:30pm. At the conclusion of each performance, a few of the characters actually leave the stage to dance with guests.

The characters appear in phases, starting with Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and Bo Peep. Joy and Sadness then join the party, before concluding with appearances by Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, Frozone, and Edna (subject to change, as always).

Joy and Sadness spent the most time dancing with guests. I have to admit, the highlight of the day was watching Sadness dance as unhappily as she could to Taylor Swift’s mega-hit, Shake it Off. The second was snagging the above-displayed rare photo of four of the main characters from The Incredibles.

Outside of Fantasyland Theatre, there isn’t much going on in the way of Pixar meet and greets aside from Miguel, from Coco, who often greets guests in his charro (a suit often donned by mariachi performers) in Frontierland near the Day-of-the-Dead display. To see Miguel in his regular clothes, you’ll need to watch the Better Together parade at DCA.

It’s baffling that they didn’t set up a temporary meet and greet for Coco-related characters near Paradise Garden Grill in DCA, considering that this particular restaurant’s entire menu is being billed as “Coco-inspired” during Pixar Fest, but I digress.

To recap, Pixar characters and locations in Disneyland Park are:

• Barley and Ian Lightfoot, Ember, Wade, Luca, Alberto, Russell, Dug and Merida at Fantasyland Thestre

• Joy, Sadness, Woody, Buzz, Jessie, Bo Peep, Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, Frozone, and Edna during the Pixar Pals Playtime stage show

• Miguel in Frontierland

• Buzz Lightyear makes occasional appearances in Tomorrowland as well

Attractions Featuring Pixar Characters

Costumed and face characters aren’t the only way to get your Pixar character fix as there are many attractions throughout both parks featuring several Pixar IP’s. Currently, none of these attractions are listed on the refurbishment calendar and since Pixar Fest is still going on, the chances of it staying that way are good.

The vast majority of Pixar-themed attractions are in California Adventure. They feature a whopping ten rides versus Disneyland park’s two. So if your goal is to remain in the Pixar bubble as much as possible, DCA is likely where you’ll want to spend most of your time.

So which rides can you see Pixar characters on at Disneyland? They are:

• Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters (DL)

• Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage (DL)

• Incredicoaster (DCA)

• Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind (DCA)

• Jessie’s Critter Carousel (DCA)

• Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters (DCA)

• Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree (DCA)

• Monsters, Inc. Mike and Sulley to the Resue! (DCA)

• Pixar Pal-A-Round (DCA)

• Radiator Springs Racers (DCA)

• Toy Story Midway Mania (DCA)

• Turtle Talk with Crush (DCA)

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If so, and especially if during Pixar Fest, read my Pixar Fest Ultimate Guide to help navigate all of the offerings. Additionally, see many of the Pixar Fest food and drink offerings by reading The 24 Pixar Fest Foodie Offerings We Tried to see pictures, prices, and more. Furthermore, photos from our tour of the new Pixar Place Hotel. Finally, for great deals on Disneyland, Disney World, and Disney Cruise Line vacation packages, visit my partners at Get Away Today.

Pixar Fest 2024 Ultimate Guide

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

With Pixar Fest 2024 in full swing at the Disneyland Resort until August 4, you may be wondering what’s being offered and what there is to do. We’ve recently visited the resort to experience Pixar Fest for ourselves and man, we honestly don’t remember the last time we’ve had so much fun at the park.

There’s so much to see, experience and eat that it could seem daunting to even attempt to experience everything (pro tip - it is). If you have a few days at the parks, you shouldn’t have any issues seeing most of it. If you only have one day, however, you may need to pick and choose.

If you don’t already know, the Disneyland Resort has hosted only one other Pixar Fest back in 2018. It wasn’t all that popular at the time, largely due to Disney seemingly phoning it in, and didn’t return in 2019. From 2020 until now, the parks have been working to recover from the effects of the pandemic. That now seems to be the case, as Disney decided to bring it back for 2024 and this time around, inject of whole lot of effort into making it successful.

If you’re thinking of visiting the parks during Pixar Fest, or you’ve already booked dates, this information-packed guide will help you navigate all of the offerings so you can prioritize which elements of Pixar Fest you’d like to experience. Let’s get into it.

Pixar Fest Decorations

The entire resort is adorned in Pixar Fest decorations. In the esplanade (the open space between Disneyland and DCA) there are numerous banners on the posts and a giant Pixar Fest display showcasing dozens of Pixar’s most popular characters and the infamous Luxo ball in the center.

It’s an impressive display during the day, particularly when the sun is hitting the panes near the top. In the evenings, though, it’s a bit of a dud as there’s nothing to illuminate it. That’s a huge (and surprising) miss on Disney’s end. It would’ve been an attraction all its own had it lit up at night.

Additionally, there are several smaller versions of this display scattered throughout Downtown Disney, as well as more banners. The main attraction are the two cars in Woody and Buzz Lightyear cosplay displayed against the former ESPN Zone building.

The parks are no different as both Main Street U.S.A in Disneyland and Buena Vista Street and Hollywood Land are also adorned in Pixar Fest banners. Additionally, the parks each feature their own large display, similar to the ones in the planters in Downtown Disney, but much larger in scale.

While these don’t light up either, there are spotlights installed at their bases to give them some illumination. In Disney California Adventure, the display is located in the hub area, in between the Carthay Circle building and the Elias & Co gift shop. It interacts with MagicBands, if you have one.

The display in Disneyland is located in Town Square near the flagpole, where the Christmas Tree and Mickey Head Pumpkin are displayed during their respective holidays. Unlike the display in DCA, this one does not interact with MagicBands. It is a popular PhotoPass spot, though.

Better Together Pixar Parade

The Better Together Pixar parade is one of the main features of Pixar Fest and runs twice daily at Disney California Adventure. It isn’t entirely new, as many of the floats and characters appeared in the former Pixar Play Parade during Pixar Fest 2018.

This year, however, the parade has a new name, theme song, and features a few new floats/characters, including those from Turning Red, Luca and Soul. While it’s possible this could change, the floats and characters you can expect to see in this parade (in order), are:

• Luxo Lamp

• Turning Red featuring the giant panda

• Up featuring Carl and Dug

• Soul featuring Joe Gardner

• Inside Out featuring Joy and Sadness

• Luca featuring Luca, Alberto and Giulia

• The Incredibles (not on a float) featuring Mr. and Mrs. Incredible

• Toy Truck featuring Woody

• Pixar Grand Finale featuring Miguel (Coco), Jessie, Buzz Lightyear, Sully, and Mike (Monsters Inc.)

You can see the difference in quality between the floats from the Pixar Fest of 2018 and new ones made for the 2024 version. The Luca float, in my opinion, was the best of the bunch. However, it felt like a wasted opportunity to hold two day time parades and not reserve one for nighttime, as many of the floats (the Soul float in particular) would’ve looked amazing lit up at night, but I digress.

Better Together Parade Route

The Better Together parade runs the same route as every other parade at DCA. Since there’s two per day (once at 4pm and again at 6:30pm) the first parade begins from behind Hollywood Land (adjacent to Mission Breakout), down the main street of Hollywood Land, through Buena Vista Street, down the Performance Corridor and then through Paradise Gardens Park, before concluding just before Pixar Pier.

The second showing will be the exact opposite, starting in Paradise Gardens Park and concluding at the end of Hollywood Land near Mission Breakout. Generally, many (myself included) feel the second showing of any parade or show at Disney is best as there’s often less competition for the most coveted viewing spots.

Better Together Parade Viewing Spots

There are several viewings areas for Better Together (or any parade that happens to be showing at DCA). One of the most popular of which is in Paradise Gardens Park in the stretch between the Little Mermaid attraction and Corn Dog Castle.

Another popular spot is along the street of Hollywood Land. This is especially true for the second showing, as there’s typically a lot of shade in this area. My personal favorite (and it’s from here where I took the photos you see in this section) is the island where the water fountain is, directly across from Carthay Circle and facing the entrance to the Performance Corridor.

This was where I stood for the 6:30pm showing and I had a great, mostly unobstructed view of the characters and floats. In addition to that, it was well shaded. Though by this time the sun was already working its way down, so I imagine that would be especially advantageous during the 4pm showing.

Keep in mind that if you choose a spot at the opposite end of where the parade begins, you won’t actually see any floats until 15-20 minutes after the official start time. For example, if your spot is in Hollywood Land for the second showing, which begins at 6:30pm, don’t expect to see any floats until closer to 6:45 or 6:50, possibly later if there any delays.

Better Together Parade Dining Packages

Unlike for other parades, such as the Frightfully Fun parade during Oogie Boogie Bash, there’s only one dining package offered for Better Together and it’s more of a dessert party than anything else. However, it does come with a reserved seat along the parade route in the Performance Corridor.

The cost is $69 per person (2 and under are free, but they must sit on your lap). At one hour to forty-five minutes prior to your selected parade time, you’ll check in at Sonoma Terrace, where your reserved seating is. The earlier you arrive, the better as seats are first come, first serve. If you snag a table at the front, you’ll have an unobstructed view of the parade. Though you’ll have the sun beating down on your as there are no umbrellas for these tables.

The tables behind the front row still have a great view and depending how you look at it, may be better than the front row, as they’re slightly elevated and come with umbrellas. If having others in front of you doesn’t bother you, these may be preferable.

You’ll receive a variety of Pixar-themed foods and desserts, along with two mocktails and unlimited water, tea, coffee and soda. Once the parade begins, though, they will no longer bring any beverages to your table. So be sure to get your monies worth before the parade start time. To book this package, go here.

Pixar Pals Playtime Party and Club Pixar

Club Pixar Hours and Offerings

Club Pixar is in the backlot area of Hollywood Land in Disney California Adventure. During the day, there are several Pixar-themed backdrops you can take photos with, in addition to a Mr. and Mrs. Incredible meet and greet in their blue retro super hero suits. This is also where the Hanger Management food marketplace is located.

Once it starts to cool down, Club Pixar comes further to life with neon lights themed to Pixar characters, live performances, dance lessons, photo-ops, games, and more. Additionally, there’s an area themed after a drive-in where you can watch Pixar shorts while relaxing in a classic car. Seating is limited and competitive here.

Another element to Club Pixar are the games guests can play. One such game is a giant chess board (with accompanying pieces) themed after the Pixar short, Geri’s Game. These games, in addition to the live performances, are only accessible to guests between 4:30pm and 8:30pm.

Many were hoping that Club Pixar would be a call-back to the nighttime events, Mad T Party and ElecTRONica, Disney used to put-on in the backlot area. There was live music by local DJ’s, themed cocktails served in a pop-up style bar, lighting effects and more. These events were immensely popular with teenagers and adults.

Alas, that has proven to not be the case, as Club Pixar is more on the family-friendly side of things. It isn’t a bad thing, as the offerings in this area are unique and fun in their own right, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention how much of a missed opportunity I feel it is to not feature a Pixar version of the Mad T Party during Pixar Fest.

Pixar Pals Playtime Party Hours and Offerings

The Pixar Pals Playtime Party takes place at Disneyland Park in the Fantasyland Theatre across from the It’s a Small World attraction. A sign out front states the hours are between 11:30am and 5:30pm but when we were there, a few of the characters began coming out for meet and greets right at 11am when the cast members dropped the rope.

There’s a lot going on in this relatively small space. The main feature is a high-energy stage show starring many of Pixar’s most beloved characters, such as Woody, Bo Peep, Jessie the Cowgirl, Sadness, Joy, Edna, Frozone, The Incredibles and more. At the conclusion of the show, many of these characters leave the stage and dance with the crowd. If you’ve never seen Sadness dancing to “Shake it Off” by Taylor Swift, you’re in for an entertaining treat.

Another feature of Pixar Pals Playtime Party are the incredible (no pun intended) amount of character meet and greets going on. The day-to-day ones include Dug and Russel from Up, Ember and Wade from Elemental, Luca and Alberto from Luca, and Barley and Ian Lightfoot from Onward. Lately, Merida from Brave has also been making sporadic appearances.

Down on the dance floor, there are several themed backdrops for guests to take pictures with, including the Piston Cup from Cars and Boo’s door from Monsters Inc. This is where there seemed to be a lack of forethought, as there where several things all happening in one cramped area. For instance, during the stage show, both Joy and Sadness were dancing in the crowd while Barley and Ian Lightfoot came out for a meet and greet, all while guests were taking photos with the backdrops.

Also here is one of the main food locations during Pixar Fest. Troubadore Tavern, which is located at the entrance to the Fantasyland Theatre, has received a Pixar makeover, offering several themed dishes, drinks and snacks with a Pixar flare. These include:

• Roundup BBQ Potato

• Una Papa Loca Potato

• Firetown Mac and Cheese Bites

• Mixed Emotions Popcorn

• Joyful Tenders and Mac (kids)

• Lotso Berry Lemonade

• “Adventure is Out There” Cold Brew (pictured above)

We tried nearly every Pixar Fest item at Troubadore Tavern and for the most part, all of them were tasty. We didn’t get around to trying every food item during our Pixar Fest visit (there were over 80, after all), but we did try 24 that you may want to learn more about.

Pixar Character Meet and Greets

Disney rolled out all the stops when it comes to character meet and greets for Pixar Fest, as there are well over twenty beloved Pixar characters out interacting and taking photos with guests. While some are the usual characters you would normally see in the parks, there are several new additions. Including:

• Ember and Wade from Elemental

• Barley and Ian Lightfoot from Onward

• Luca, Alberto, and Guila from Luca

• Mei and Ming Lee from Turning Red

• Mike and Sully from Monsters Inc.

• Woody and Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story

• and many, many more

For us, the rare character meet and greets are our favorite aspect of these special events. It’s why we attend Oogie Boogie Bash every year and it’s why we’ll likely continue to attend Pixar Fest. Some have standard queues, while others, including Mei and Ming Lee, had huge queues. Checking the app (or with a Cast Member) about when they’ll be making their appearances and being there early is key if you want a photo with your favorites.

READ: Pixar Fest Character Locations Guide

Pixar-Themed Food and Drink Items

As we briefly discussed above, Disney has rolled out over 80 new food and drink items for this year’s Pixar Fest. Many restaurants and snack carts in both parks are participating, as well as several eateries in the Downtown Disney District.

Exclusive to Disney California Adventure are the six Pixar-themed marketplaces. You may recognize these marketplaces as they’re the same ones used during the California Food and Wine Festival, Festival of Holidays and Lunar New Year. Their names and locations are:

• The Spark, inspired by Soul

• 4*Town Favorites, inspired by Turning Red

• Gusteau’s To-Go, inspired by Ratatouille

• Portorosso Pasta, inspired by Luca

• Hanger Management, inspired by Inside Out

• Elemental Table, inspired by Elemental

The Hanger Management marketplace is located in the Club Pixar (Backlot) area of Hollywood Land while the remaining five are placed along the Performance Corridor between the main entrance to Avengers Campus and the Little Mermaid show building.

We tried several offerings at these booths and found them to be hit and miss. The Jumbo Panda Bao was the clear winner for us, especially with the accompanying chili-garlic sauce. Another favorite was the Kol Nut Whoopie Cookie Pie from Elemental Table.

The mac and cheese from Hanger Management, however, we loathed. It was an obvious move on Disney’s part to provide a safe option for picky eaters, but it was too safe of an option. The mac itself was cold and overcooked and to make matters worse, the Cheeto puffs were stale.

Outside of the marketplaces, there were several excellent Pixar Fest offerings. For starters, the “Shake 2319” sold at Schmoozies in DCA was one of the best shakes I’ve ever tasted. Also, while basic in nature, the Pixar Fest cake, sold at the Plaza Inn in Disneyland Park, was perfectly moist and had just the right frosting to cake ratio.

If you’re looking for actual food, the Bruno sandwich sold at Jolly Holiday Bakery and the Una Papas Loca Potato sold at Troubadore Tavern are both solid options. I wish I could recommend the Coco-inspired menu at Paradise Garden Grill in DCA, but it mostly fell flat for us (the sole exception being the Tres Leches Parfait).

In total, we tried 24 Pixar Fest food and drink items during our visit. If you’d like, you can read through that post to see what we do and do not recommend. No matter your palette, there’s something for everyone at Pixar Fest.

Search for Hidden Pizza Planet Trucks

I’m sure you’ve heard of hidden mickey heads, but have you ever heard of hidden Pizza Planet trucks? I’m doubtful, because it’s new for this year’s Pixar Fest. Scattered throughout the resort are creatively themed and decorated Pizza Planet trucks that do an excellent job blending in with their surroundings.

There’s no official guide book, checklist, or anything like that, but there are fifty of them for you to find. To my knowledge, they’re only in the two parks. The truck photographed above is in one of the window displays of the Emporium on Main Street. I’ve seen others in the DCA Starbucks, Mission Breakout and in Adventureland.

It’s too bad Disney didn’t offer something similar to what they do for Easter and sell people an official checklist that offers clues to help you locate all fifty trucks. If you’re successful, you’d turn it in and receive a pin or something similar. Honestly, if you want to keep the kids busy and distracted, just have them search for these trucks. They could spend an entire day on this.

Together Forever - A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular

Much like the Better Together parade at DCA, the Together Forever Pixar Nighttime Spectacular at Disneyland is a rehash of the 2018 version, with several familiar moments from Toy Story, Inside Out, Coco and The Incredibles retained, and new scenes added from Turning Red, Luca, Soul, Onward and Elemental.

As far as where to view the show from, the same rules that apply to other fireworks shows at Disneyland, also apply here. The cream-of-the-crop spot is dead-center in front of the castle. For that view, you’ll need to arrive several hours prior to showtime and loiter until cast members put the ropes up.

Our personal favorite is in between and near the end of the Main Street buildings. My reasoning is twofold, in that you still get a great view of the projections and fireworks in and around the castle, but you also get to see the projection on the Main Street buildings as well, which adds to the experience in my humble opinion.

If you watched the 9:00pm showing of Fantasmic, specifically from one of the reserved viewing areas, you can stay put and watch the fireworks from there. The music will be piped in and you’ll (somewhat) see the projections on the water walls on the Rivers of America. In my opinion, it isn’t a great spot but if you’re already there, it beats having to fight your way through the crowds to the Main Street.

The show happens nightly at 9:30pm but due to local noise ordnances, the fireworks aspect of the show occurs only on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. During the week the show will be featured with projections only. Either way, you’re in for a great show.

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If so, be sure to stay privy to ride closures with my 2024 Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar. Furthermore, don’t get caught off guard by non-availability at your favorite restaurant by reading my 2024 Disneyland Dining Guide and 10 Best Disneyland Tips: Dining. Also, learn about the recent changes to Disney’s DAS program here. Finally, for great savings on tickets and vacation packages to Disneyland, Disney World, and Disney Cruise Line, visit my partners at Get Away Today.

The 24 Pixar Fest Foodie Offerings We Tried (+ Our Recommendations)

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

A couple of months ago, Disney released the 2024 Pixar Fest Foodie Guide and we were floored by how many items would be offered throughout the event. Over 80 new and returning treats are now available for guests to try.

The last Pixar Fest took place in 2018, and it didn’t have nearly the amount of food and drink that are being presented this year. I asked various cast members around the resort if Disney is trying to make Pixar Fest an annual foodie festival of sorts and while no one could (or would) say for sure, the general consensus was learning towards a “yes”.

No complaints here. Personally, we love the food festivals DCA puts on every year, especially Food and Wine Festival. Combine our love of trying new foods with our resounding millennial-loyalty to the Pixar characters we grew up with and Disney has a recipe for success.

There was no way we were going to be able to try everything in the three days we were there (we were also trying Season of the Force offerings as well), but we gave it our best. In total, we tried 24 Pixar Fest offerings in three days. Some were great, some were just ok and some were downright bad. In this list, we’re going to show you what we tried and what we liked/didn’t like about them, along with information such as price, where they’re sold, etc.

Finally, they’re in no particular order. Let’s get into it.

1) Panda Apocalypse

Location: 4*Town Favorites Marketplace (Performance Corridor)

Price: $6.75

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 7

This dessert features several layers of chocolate chunk brownie and New York-style cheesecake, finished with a topping of orange and red cream cheese frosting. It is inspired by Mei Lee’s (Turning Red) favorite fictional band, 4*Town.

The brownie portion was moist, not dry in the slightest. However, it was mostly all frosting. Additionally, the sweetness from the frosting overtook the hearty-ness of the brownie instead of complimenting it. All in all, it was good, but it isn’t something I would plan a visit to park around.

2) H2O-Rita

Location: Elemental Table (Performance Corridor)

Price: $17.00

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 8

The H2O-Rita is one of two cocktails offered at Elemental Table. It’s made with a tequila base and mixed with blue curacoa syrup, lychee nectar, yuja puree, lime juice and garnished with a rock candy stick. Essentially, it tasted like a blue-raspberry margarita.

Admittedly, the serving size took me by surprise (in a good way) as I was expecting a much smaller cup. The price tag is on par with most cocktails at the Disneyland Resort (maybe a buck or two cheaper, actually).

The rock candy stick gives the drink “gram” appeal, but doesn’t add much of anything to the flavor profile. The drink isn’t too strong, leading me to believe that there isn’t much tequila in it. If you enjoy margaritas, though, you’ll certainly enjoy this.

3) Ramon Nachos

Location: Studio Catering Co. in the Backlot

Price: $12.99

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 10

It’s an interesting choice on Disney’s part to omit the possessive from Ramon Nachos (for example, Ramon’s Nachos), but that’s just a nit-picky thing on my part that 99.99% of the remaining population cares nothing about. That’s literally my only “complaint” as these nachos were absolutely on-point.

The chips seem to be the same ones used in the Lobster/Barbacoa Nachos at Lamplight Lounge. They’re thick, crispy, salted just enough, and don’t sog under the pressure of its toppings. Speaking of toppings, they include grilled chicken, queso blanco, refried beans, pico de gallo, salsa verde, cotija, serrano peppers and radishes.

Again, no complaints here. The chicken had a smokey flavor profile and wasn’t dry. The flavor combination of the queso, salsa verde, and serrano peppers was astonishing. If I had to list a negative, it would be the amount of queso. There wasn’t much and I wish there was more. That’s it, though. Highly recommend.

4) Nobody Like U Cooler (non-alcoholic)

Location: 4*Town Favorites Marketplace (Performance Corridor)

Price: $7.50

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 9

The Nobody Like U Cooler is the sole drink offering at the Turning Red marketplace and to me, was the clear winner of all the drinks we tried (including the cocktails). It is made with a Joffrey’s Raspberry Rose Tea base, finished with white cranberry, lime & orange juices and cherry syrup, garnished with an orange wedge gummy.

Obviously, this drink is sweet, fruity and is essentially candy in liquid form. I didn’t find it offensively sweet, though, and orange is the flavor that comes through prominently. That tells me it’s the citrus saving this drink from being too sweet.

5) Sea Monster Friends Parfait

Location: Jolly Holiday Bakery (Disneyland)

Price: $6.79

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 6

The Sea Monster Friends Parfait sold at Jolly Holiday Bakery is layered with graham cracker crumbs, mascarpone cheesecake, berry blue gelatin and blue chantilly topped with an edible Luca chocolate decoration.

We were fairly split on this one, as Kisha felt the flavor of the gelatin grossly overpowered the dessert (and had a bad taste to begin with). While I didn’t mind it too much, I can agree that it definitely overpowers the rest of the ingredients.

The cheesecake and graham crack crust alone, without the gelatin, worked well together and unlike other parfaits we had during Pixar Fest, the crust wasn’t soggy and had an actual crunch to it. However, once you add the gelatin to the mix, it definitely takes it down a few notches.

6) 2319 Shake

Location: Schmoozies! (DCA)

Price: $9.79

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 9

The 2319 Shake was one of our favorites from Pixar Fest. If you don’t know what “2319” is, it was the code used in the animated film Monsters Inc. whenever a human-related contamination was found. One of the scarers in the film, George Sanderson, was often the ill-fated victim of this.

The shake is sold at Schmoozies, which is located in Hollywood Land near the entrance to the Backlot. It’s a shake made with orange, vanilla, guava and pineapple, topped with shaved coconut, whipped cream and garnished with an orange cone.

Much like most shakes from Schmoozies, it’s huge! Both of us split one and it was still too much. If you’re coming with a group of three to four, there would plenty for everyone to get multiple spoon fulls. That helps to stomach the nearly ten dollar price tag. Again, we loved this one and wouldn’t hesitate to get it again.

7) Joyful Mac and Cheese

Location: Hanger Management marketplace (Backlot)

Price: $8.50

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 3

This is where things take a turn for the worst. If you read my initial post about the then-upcoming Pixar-themed marketplaces, I mentioned how I felt the offerings at the Hanger Management booth were, at best, underwhelming and lazy. I get it, Disney needed to satisfy picky eaters, but this, in my opinion, was too dumbed down.

I knew I would hate it, but for research purposes, we tried the Joyful Mac and Cheese. We almost ordered the half and half dish, which featured a split plate of the Joyful and Angry Macs, but we just couldn’t stomach the idea of eating the red-dye loaded Angry Mac.

In short, the Joyful Mac and Cheese was a slight step up from its boxed counterpart, but a massive step down from mac dishes you’ll find throughout the resort (such as the Truffle Mac & Cheese at Hearthstone Lounge). Our dish, in particular, was cold, the Cheeto puffs were stale and the macaroni was overcooked. We both felt it would’ve been slightly better had the puffs been crushed and baked into the mac.

Needless to say, it’s a hard pass for us. If there’s an individual in your family (or perhaps it’s you) who is a picky eater, this is their safe option. Outside of that, I’m going to recommend staying far away from these dishes as there are other, far superior options throughout the resort.

8) Pixar Fest Cake

Location: Plaza Inn (Disneyland)

Price: $9.29

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 7

This cake is the flagship offering during Pixar Fest and is one of the only returning items from the 2018 event. As such, we had to try it. It’s sold at Plaza Inn which is located adjacent to the entrance to Tomorrowland in the hub. You cannot mobile order anything here, but the cake slices are readily available near each cash register.

We were happily surprised by how moist the cake was, especially considering how mass-produced it is. The red, yellow, and blue colors you see are simply food coloring to give it that Pixar flare and thus, do not add any flavor to it. The frosting was sweet, as you’d expect, but didn’t overpower as it was layered evenly with the cakes.

It isn’t something I would go out of my way to get, but if I found myself near Plaza Inn and wanted a slice of cake, the Pixar Fest Cake fits the bill nicely. I will say that the price point is way too high for what is essentially a basic (albeit good) slice of cake.

9) Pineapple Coconut Float

Location: Tropical Hideaway (Disneyland)

Price: $9.29

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 8.5

This was another favorite treat of ours. It’s sold at Tropical Hideaway in Adventureland and is inspired by the Pixar short film, “Lava”. It is made with Dole Whip pineapple soft serve, blue Dole pineapple-coconut juice, strawberry “lava” (syrup) and topped with a turtle gummy.

I’m not a huge fan of coconut, so I was a bit worried that I wouldn’t like it but honestly, the coconut didn’t come through as much as I thought it would. It actually helped to balance out the sweetness from the pineapple and strawberry syrup nicely.

Again, this is another item I feel is priced too high, even by Disney standards, but it’s definitely splittable between two people. Additionally, this location doesn’t offer mobile order and does not give Magic Key discounts. Despite the lack of competition from mobile order, the line here can get long. So plan to arrive close to opening (11am) if you want to avoid that.

10) Una Papa Loca!

Location: Troubadour Tavern (Disneyland)

Price: $10.49

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 7.5

The Una Papa Loca! is one of two baked potato “snacks” offered at Troubadore Tavern during Pixar Fest. If you’re unaware, Troubadore Tavern is a walk-up style snack stand situated near the entrance of Fantasyland Theatre.

The baked potato is topped with various ingredients, including chicken, cheese, avocado salsa, sour cream, onion, cilantro and spiced corn chip crumble. In case you’re wondering, those “spiced corn chips” were essentially crumbled up hot Cheetos.

Our only real complaint was the potato itself could’ve used seasoning as we felt there wasn’t any. They seemed to heavily rely on the toppings providing all the flavor, which they did. However, the potato having an appropriate amount of seasoning would’ve made this decent dish a great one.

11) Mood Stabilizer Cocktail

Location: Hanger Management marketplace (DCA - Backlot)

Price: $17.00

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 6

This Pixar version of a Makers Mule was decent enough. Again, the size of the cup took me by surprise as Disney doesn’t usually serve cocktails in cups this big, but I’m not complaining. The watermelon came through in a big way, making this a rather refreshing drink on a hot day. Which is something you usually don’t associate with a bourbon-based drink.

12) Mr. Potato Head Churro

Location: Churro cart near Goofy’s Sky School (DCA)

Price: $7.25

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 10

The Mr. Potato Head churro is sold at the churro cart near the stand-by entrance to Goofy’s Sky School in Paradise Gardens. This is one of three special churros offered for Pixar Fest and was he hands-down winner of the three.

There’s literally nothing I didn’t like about it, except maybe there was a tad too much chocolate sauce used on mine. As you can see in the photo above, my churro was practically swimming in it.

The saltiness from the chips (Lays, essentially) blended in perfect harmony with the sweetness of the churro and chocolate. I went into this wanting to dislike it but one bite in and I was hooked. I would order this again and again.

READ: Pixar Fest Character Locations Guide

13) Firetown Mac & Cheese Bites

Location: Troubadore Tavern (Disneyland)

Price: $11.49

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 8

These mac and cheese bites were getting a lot of hate online, so I was eager to try them for myself as I’m known to indulge on these whenever I see them on a restaurant’s appetizer menu. To make them even more appealing, Disney used gouda cheese (which I love) and tossed them in a four-chili rub to give them a spicy kick.

I’m a bit of a wimp when it comes to spice, but I found these to be tolerable. If you’re a connoisseur of all things spicy, you may even find these not spicy at all. To me, they are more about the flavor of spice rather than containing an actual heat.

My only two complaints were the price and the lack of an accompanying dipping sauce, which I feel it needed. I ordered a side of BBQ sauce with mine, but it doesn’t come with the dish on its own. Offering a chili-spiced ranch or even a jalapeño-queso dip would’ve been fantastic.

14) Mixed Emotions Popcorn

Location: Troubadour Tavern (Disneyland)

Price: $8.79

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 8.5

This popcorn has every reason to be hated but to be honest, we thoroughly enjoyed it. In the box, you’re given a mixture of ube-flavored popcorn, M&M chocolate candies, freeze-dried skittles and pretzel sticks. I never would’ve imagined that these four ingredients would work so well with one another, but they do.

For the price, you’re given a rather decent portion size. The popcorn is served in a box with theming to the original opening-day lands of Disneyland; Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. I wish it was served in a bag instead of a box, though, as that would’ve been easier to stash in my backpack, but I digress.

15) Red Panda Bao

Location: 4*Town Favorites marketplace (DCA - Performance Corridor)

Price: $9.00

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 6 (7 with the sauce)

The Red Panda Bao is a jumbo vegetable and pork stuffed bao served with a side of chili-garlic dipping sauce. It takes inspiration from Mei Lee, the main character in Turning Red, who turns into a giant red panda when she experiences strong emotions.

The bun was cooked to perfection, however, we felt there should’ve been more stuffing inside considering this is being billed as a “jumbo” bao. Additionally, the pork was mostly flavorless. However, once you add that chili-sauce to the mix, it kicks it up a couple notches. It’s spicy, but not unbearably so. Without the sauce, it’s a fairly basic bao not worth going out of your way for.

16) Kol Nut Cookie Whoopie Pie

Location: Elemental Table marketplace (DCA - Performance Corridor)

Price: $7.00

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 8.5

This dessert sold at the Elemental Table marketplace takes inspiration from the rocks from Pixar’s sleeper hit, Elemental. It’s two cake cookies baked with cocoa powder, with cream cheese frosting sandwiched between and topped with crushed cinnamon candies.

All told, this dessert was delicious. The hero is the creamy frosting in the middle, but the cake cookies were perfectly moist with the cinnamon candies on the top cookie giving it a “burnt” texture, without actually being burnt. It was an all around great dessert option.

17) Lotso Berry Lemonade

Location: Troubadour Tavern (Disneyland)

Price: $9.99

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 6.5

The Lotso Berry Lemonade is made with strawberry-flavored lemonade with a sweet cream topper and “garnished” with an Outshine strawberry fruit bar. Yes, you get a whole ice cream bar included with your lemonade.

This drink is practically liquid sugar and is delicious, but only in small doses. Here’s a tip, use the ice cream bar as a stir-stick to mix the lemonade and the sweet cream together. It gives it a thicker consistency and ups the ante on the overall flavor.

18) Blackberry Churro

Location: Tomorrowland Churro Cart (Disneyland)

Price: $7.25

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 1

I never thought I would be giving a Disneyland churro such a low rating but for us, this blackberry-flavored churro was a miss. While we all know the flavoring for the churros is often artificial, Disney usually does a better job at hiding the taste. That wasn’t the case here, as it had “artificial” written all over it.

The banana-strawberry dipping sauce didn’t help matters, as it wasn’t anything to write home about either. All told, there was nothing redeeming about this churro for us. For our money, we’ll stick with the traditional churro or head across the esplanade to pick up the above-mentioned Mr. Potato Head churro.

19) Carnitas Wet Burrito

Location: Paradise Gardens Grill (DCA)

Price: $13.99

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 6

The Carnitas Wet Burrito served at Paradise Gardens Grill is from the eatery’s special Coco-inspired menu during Pixar Fest. For me, it falls under the category of didn’t hate it, but didn’t love it either. It was simply ok. The filling inside the burrito was decent, but I felt the carnitas could’ve used more and/or better seasoning.

The tortilla itself is really where it fell apart for me. Perhaps it’s because I’ve been spoiled with fantastic Mexican food, but I found the tortilla to be doughy and flat in flavor. If there was an option to make this dish a burrito bowl, I would likely rate it much higher.

20) Multi-Colored (Sulley) Churro

Location: Hollywood Land Churro Cart (DCA)

Price: $7.25

Magic Key Discount: No

Mobile Order: No

Rating (out of 10): 5

The Multicolored Churro (or what I affectionately refer to as the, “Sulley” churro) is sold at the Hollywood Land churro cart. Sometimes the cart is placed in the Backlot and other times it’s parked near the entrance of the Backlot.

This churro is one of three Pixar-themed churros offered during Pixar Fest and to be perfectly honest, it was only mildly better than the blackberry version discussed above. The flavor from the white-cherry drizzle comes through in a big way and distracts from the churro. If you like artificial white-cherry, you’ll love this.

21) “Adventure is Out There” Cold Brew

Location: Troubadour Tavern (Disneyland)

Price: $6.79

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 9

The “Adventure is Out There” cold brew is the final Pixar Fest-themed treat we tried at Troubadour Tavern. It’s made with dark chocolate cold brew with a butterscotch cream topper and garnished with confetti quins and a wafer cookie.

We all know the running joke about Disneyland and their cold brews. My personal favorite (and the only one worth getting more than once) is the Black Caf at Docking Bay 7. This cold brew, however, was exceptional and came extraordinarily close to claiming that title. This needs to stay on the regular menu once Pixar Fest concludes.

22) Chile Verde Chicken Flautas

Location: Paradise Gardens Grill (DCA)

Price: $13.99

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 6

This dish is also from the Coco-inspired menu at Paradise Gardens Grill and much like the burrito discussed above, was also in a gray area in terms of how we liked it. Reason being is the chicken inside the flautas was flavorless with seemingly no seasoning at all. Disney relied solely on the toppings to provide all the flavor. Additionally, the accompanying refried beans tasted like they came out of a can.

23) Silenzio Bruno! Sandwich

Location: Jolly Holiday Bakery (Disneyland)

Price: $14.99

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes

Rating (out of 10): 9

The Silenzio Bruno! sandwich is served at Jolly Holiday Bakery located near the entrance to Adventureland in the hub. It’s a cold sandwich on an Italian roll filled with chopped ham, salami, provolone, lettuce, tomato, pickled onion and pepperoncini with Italian dressing and served with house-made potato chips.

Kisha reports that the sandwich is the perfect meal on a hot day. It isn’t overly dressed, contains the perfect amount of filling (not too much or too less of a certain ingredient) and the bread itself seemed hallowed as to not contain too much bread, which is a common issue with sandwiches.

24) Red Velvet Tres Leches Parfait

Location: Paradise Gardens Grill (DCA)

Price: $7.49

Magic Key Discount: Yes

Mobile Order: Yes (does get taken off mobile order from time to time)

Rating (out of 10): 9.5

The Red Velvet Tres Leches Parfait was probably the most delicious dessert out of everything we tried. It’s served at Paradise Gardens Grill and is layered with a pink cinnamon mousse, churro crunch, red velvet cake and orange mousse, garnished with a chocolate skull decoration.

All the flavors of this parfait came together so well that it was hard to put down. We both regretted not getting our own. So why did I give it 9.5 and not 10? The churro crunch in the middle had no crunch to it at all, which was a bit of a let down. Had it been crunchy as advertised, this parfait would’ve exceeded a 10.

Planning a Disneyland vacation? If so, be sure to consult my 2024 Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar to stay on top of ride closures. Also, learn about the different aspects of dining, such as mobile order and advance dining reservations, by reading my 2024 Disneyland Dining Guide. Furthermore, learn about the recent changes to Disney’s DAS program here. Finally, for great pricing on Disneyland, Disney World, and Disney Cruise Line vacation packages, visit my partners at Get Away Today (use code “INKED10” for $10 off your purchase).

Oogie Boogie Bash 2024: Ticket Prices, Dates and What to Expect

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While we already knew that Oogie Boogie Bash would be making a return in 2024, Disney recently released additional information about this year’s event during the Halfway to Halloween celebration.

If you don’t know what Oogie Boogie Bash is, it’s an annual after-hours, separate ticketed event held at Disney California Adventure on select nights throughout the Halloween season. It’s different than normal theme park Halloween events, as it’s more about the spirit of Halloween rather than the scares.

It started back in 2019 as the successor to Mickey’s Not-so-Scary Halloween Party as a way to beef up the crowds at DCA. The gamble worked, as many would argue that Oogie Boogie Bash has surpassed its predecessor in nearly every way.

In this post, we’re going to discuss several topics pertaining to Oogie Boogie, such as 2024 event dates, ticket prices, when tickets go on sale and some frequently asked questions about the event. Let’s get into it.

Oogie Boogie Bash 2024 Dates and Ticket Prices

This year, Disney’s Halloween season at the resort kicks off on August 23. In prior years, Halloween didn’t begin at Disneyland until the first or second week of September. Consequently, as I previously predicted, Oogie Boogie Bash will expand with event dates in August.

There are a total of 27 event nights this year, which is surprising as that’s only two more than last year. Considering the immense popularity of the event (evident by it’s blink-and-you’ll-miss-it ticket sales), I have to believe that Disney could’ve held thirty or more parties.

Additionally, there’s no word on if they’ll be a D23-specific night like there was in 2022. I doubt this is something they would intentionally hold back so since they haven’t announced it, it’s safe to assume it isn’t happening. I’ll be sure to update if that changes.

In 2024, Oogie Boogie Bash dates are:

August

• Sunday, Aug. 25

• Tuesday, Aug. 27

• Thursday, Aug. 29

September

• Tuesday, Sept. 3

• Tuesday, Sept. 10

• Thursday, Sept. 12

• Sunday, Sept. 15

• Tuesday, Sept. 17

• Thursday, Sept. 19

• Sunday, Sept. 22

• Tuesday, Sept. 24

• Thursday, Sept. 26

• Sunday, Sept. 29

October

• Tuesday, Oct. 1

• Thursday, Oct. 3

• Sunday, Oct. 6

• Tuesday, Oct. 8

• Thursday, Oct. 10

• Sunday, Oct. 13

• Tuesday, Oct. 15

• Thursday, Oct. 17

• Sunday, Oct. 20

• Tuesday, Oct. 22

• Thursday, Oct. 24

• Sunday, Oct. 27

• Tuesday, Oct. 29

• Thursday, Oct. 31

Disney hasn’t released date-specific pricing just yet, but did announce a price range of $134 - $189, which is the exact price range as last year. This is interesting as it marks the first time since the party’s inception that there wasn’t a price increase.

That was another prediction of mine, that Disney would forego a price increase in favor of expanding the number of nights since they’re now starting in August. That’s another reason why I’m baffled that they didn’t add more nights to the calendar.

I’ll be sure to update this post once date-specific pricing is released but generally, you can expect the price to be higher on Friday and Saturday event nights and even higher as Halloween approaches. The Halloween night event almost always sells out first and is always at the highest price point.

Furthermore, I’m predicting that three events in August will be at or near the low end of the price range. My reasoning for this belief is two-fold. For one, this is the inaugural year for Disneyland’s early start to Halloween and two, that final week or so in August is almost always slow (crowd-wise). Setting the price at the lower end of the spectrum for those dates would certainly entice more guests to visit.

When Do Oogie Boogie Bash 2024 Tickets Go On Sale?

Unfortunately, Disney made no mention as to when Oogie Boogie Bash tickets would go on sale, other than stating they would do so, “in the coming weeks”. In 2023, tickets went on sale in late June, but that was when the halfway mark to the Halloween season was closer to June. Since it’s now in early May, I would predict sales dates in late May.

As has been the case with After Dark events this year, definitely expect to see Magic Key holders to get first crack at tickets with exclusive sales dates. Disney could even hold an Inspire Key-only sales date, much like they did with the Star Wars Nite event.

As stated above, there’s not yet been any mention of a D23 night. If they do decide to add one, you would need to be a member of D23 in order to purchase tickets. If you’re not a D23 member but you know someone who is, you’ll be able to attend the party with them provided they’ve purchased the tickets.

Be wary of uninformed opinions of how quickly Oogie Boogie Bash tickets will or will not sell out. Many will point to how long it took for tickets to the bloated amount of Star Wars Nites to sell out. Honestly, they’re not entirely wrong, but Star Wars Nites are not Oogie Boogie nights. Not by a long shot. While many of the offerings during Oogie Boogie events remain the same year after year, Disney changes them up just enough to remain appealing.

Typically, one or two new villains are added to line-up of treat trails, which prove to be immensely popular with event-goers. Admittedly, the parade could use a refresh, but that’s a conversation for another post. Villains Grove is a major attraction and the chance to see even more rare characters entices more and more guests to attend.

To sum it up, don’t slack on tickets or count on them not selling out quickly. They likely will. So if you’re intent on attending Oogie Boogie Bash this year, be ready to go on the first available sales date you can participate in.

Same-Day Admission to DCA with Oogie Boogie Bash Tickets

Many ask what time do Oogie Boogie Bash events start and if they could get into the park early with those tickets. The event officially begins at 6pm and goes until 11pm but with your ticket, you can actually get into DCA earlier than that.

Guests with tickets to Oogie Boogie Bash can enter Disney California Adventure as early as 3pm. That’s three additional hours of park time. Many use this time to research the park guide, get in an early dinner, or camp out at the most popular event offerings to be the first in line.

If you do arrive early, you can check in and receive your event wristband and treat bag near the main entrance to Avengers Campus. If you arrive closer to the event start time, though, you’ll receive them the gate in which you entered.

Additionally, there’s no need to worry about reservations as your ticket is your reservation (remember those simple days?). Aside from that, if you want to spend time in the park prior to 3pm, you’ll need a regular park ticket or Magic Key, in addition to a reservation.

What to Expect at Oogie Boogie Bash

If you’ve never attended Oogie Boogie Bash before, you should know that it isn’t scary like Knott’s Scary Farm or Halloween Horror Nights at Universal. The mood at Oogie Boogie is generally lite, and more about the spirit and celebration of Halloween than the scares. If you have littles, they shouldn’t have any issues as far as being scared is concerned.

We don’t yet know what the exact offerings will be during Oogie Boogie Bash 2024, as Disney doesn’t release that information until the event gets closer. As stated above, the main offerings generally remain the same every year, with just a few changes or additions. That said, I can fill you in on what will likely be offered with a decently high degree of certainty.

Villains Grove

You can definitely expect to see Villains Grove return to the event. Each year, Redwood Creek Challenge is transformed into a ethereal world of Disney villains. If you’ve never experienced it, it’s a walk-through attraction featuring several scenes with projection, lighting, and shadow effects, in addition to musical elements, themed after many of Disney’s most beloved villains, such as Scar and the Queen of Hearts.

It’s the attraction that consistently has the longest queue during the event and many would argue that it’s worth the price of admission all its own, so be sure not to miss it. While it can always change, scenes from past events included:

• Frollo’s Sanctuary

• Maleficient

• Queen of Hearts’ Garden.

• Scar’s Elephant Graveyard

• Dr. Facilier’s Friends on the Other Side

• The Queen’s Lightning Forest

• Home of the Wisps

Treat Trails Featuring Disney Villains

Another villain offering during Oogie Boogie Bash are the treat trails that feature several, rarely-seen Disney villains. These treat trails are not your typical character meet and greets, as cast members entice guests to keep moving through the queue with handfuls of candy.

The villains will interact with guests and periodically stop to pose for photos, but you won’t be able to take a selfie or group picture with them. This keeps the line flowing, ensuring short wait times. At last year’s event, we didn’t wait longer than ten minutes to see each one. A few examples of villains from past parties include:

• Ernesto de la Cruz (Coco)

• Judge Doom (Who Framed Roger Rabbit?)

• Sid (Toy Story)

• Cruella (live-action version)

• Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty)

• Mother Gothel (Tangled)

• Oogie Boogie (Nightmare Before Christmas)

Frightfully Fun Parade

The Frightfully Fun parade is exclusive to the event and runs twice nightly at 7:50pm and 10:05pm, respectively. The first showing begins in Paradise Gardens, runs up through the Performance Corridor, then down Hollywood Land, before concluding near Mission Breakout. The second showing runs in the opposite order.

It’s a relatively short parade and it isn’t the greatest thing Disney has ever produced, but it’s fun and fine for what it is. The Headless Horseman kicks off the parade, followed by multiple villains and Halloween-themed floats, including those from Nightmare Before Christmas and the Haunted Mansion. Mickey and Minnie Mouse also make an appearance, of course.

You can add to the experience by purchasing a dining package with reserved viewing at Wine Country Trattoria or a dessert party with exclusive seating along the parade route in front of Sonoma Terrace, along the Performance Corridor. The viewing area of the latter option is in front of Grizzly Peak, just across from the main entrance to Avengers Campus.

Halloween-Themed Food and Drinks

While the Halloween season in general brings about several specially-themed Halloween treats throughout both parks, Disney will also reserve a handful that are exclusive to Oogie Boogie Bash attendees.

These special offerings include everything from tasty desserts and full-blown entrees to bagged candy and cocktails. As stated above, Wine Country Trattoria offers a special three-course meal as part of a dining package for the parade and several other locations, including Studio Catering Cart and Schmoozies, get in on the action as well.

These are the main offerings during Oogie Boogie Bash, but there are plenty of others as well. In addition to the Villain Treat Trails, you’ll also experience several traditional character meet and greets, unlimited trick or treating, ride attractions with low to no wait times and more.

Speaking honestly, I love the existing offerings, but I wish Disney would offer just a bit more. Personally, I would love to see a special dining experience with ultra-rare characters. Imagine enjoying a three or four course meal at Carthay Circle while the Seven Dwarfs make their way around the room. Or the villains of Pixar greeting you while dining at Lamplight Lounge. The possibilities are truly endless.

Oogie Boogie Bash Frequent Questions

How quickly do Oogie Boogie Bash tickets sell out?

In prior years, tickets sold out either the same day or by the next day. In other words, they go super quick. Be sure to be on-the-ball once Disney announces the on-sale date.

Are the attractions open during Oogie Boogie Bash?

As long as they’re not down for refurbishment, yes, most or all attractions are open during the event. Often with little to no wait times.

Does DAS work during Oogie Boogie Bash?

Yes and no. The only attraction that offers DAS during Oogie Boogie Bash is Villains Grove. Since there aren’t as many people in the park during the event, the rides have little to no wait times, making DAS mostly unnecessary. To read about the recent changes to DAS, go here.

Does Genie Plus work during Oogie Boogie Bash?

No. If you’ve purchased Genie Plus during normal park hours, it will no longer work once the event begins. Additionally, you cannot purchase it during the event.

Is the park crowded during Oogie Boogie Bash?

Busy is a relative term and highly depends on you perceive it. From my perspective, the crowd levels are nowhere near like they are during the day. That said, the queues at the most popular offerings, such as Villains Grove and certain character experiences, can experience long wait times.

Are costumes allowed at Oogie Boogie Bash?

Yes! Both children and adults alike can dress in a Halloween costume for the event. There are a few rules, however. They are:

• Guests who dress like Disney characters cannot pose for pictures or sign autographs

• Costumes cannot have sharp or pointed objects or material

• No part of the costume can drag on the ground

• Costumes that surround or cover the entire body may not be allowed

• Costumes must not be violent, objectionable, or offensive

• They may not contain objects that could be construed as weapons

Which entrance can I use?

All three entrances into DCA can used to access the gate. All guests can utilize the main gate and the Grand Californian entrance, and guests who’re registered at the Pixar Place Hotel may use their exclusive entrance as well.

Is there a World of Color showing during Oogie Boogie Bash?

While there was a villains-themed World of Color shown during the first Oogie Boogie Bash, it has not made a return since. This could always change in 2024, though.

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If so, be sure to consult my 2024 Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar for information on current and upcoming ride closures. If you only have one day to spend, read Disneyland in One Day: 8 Tips to Maximize Your Time. Additionally, see my 2024 Disneyland Halloween Guide. Finally, for great prices on Disneyland tickets and vacation packages to just about anywhere, visit my friends at Get Away Today.

An Overview of the Six Pixar-Themed Marketplaces at Pixar Fest

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

When Disney released details of what to expect during Pixar Fest in 2024, one of the offerings mentioned were several Pixar-themed marketplaces in the Hollywood Backlot area. If you’ve ever attended a Food and Wine Festival or Lunar New Year, you’d know exactly what those “marketplaces” are.

If you don’t know, they’re essentially themed food booths with certain elements having to do with whichever festival is taking place. For example, during Food and Wine, one of the marketplaces was called “Garlic Kissed” and featured food items related to - you guessed it - garlic.

They’ve proven to be insanely popular, so it only made sense for Disney to theme after some of Pixar’s most beloved films and use them to elevate the offerings during Pixar Fest.

In this post, we’re going to take a look at the names of these marketplaces, which film they’re themed after, and images and descriptions of what each one is going to offer. Unfortunately, I can confirm that there will not be a Sip and Savor Pass for sale during this event.

1) “The Spark” - Inspired by Soul

Inspired by Pixar’s hit film Soul, “The Spark” will offer several brand new food and cocktail offerings, in addition to an exhaustive amount of beers and seltzers. The booth’s sole entree offering is the Supper Club Chicken & Potato Waffles with peach cobbler sauce and cinnamon-herb crumble. For dessert is the Half Note Jazz Cake which, by the website’s own admission, is essentially a basic red velvet cake.

The Great Beyond, one of two crafted cocktails at this booth, is made with gin, maraschino liquor, violet & blue curacoa syrups, lemon juice and pear nectar. The second cocktail, SPARK-ler, seems like it’ll be on the sweeter side with a concoction of varying syrups including mango, pineapple and cotton candy.

2) 4Town Fav*4*ites - Inspired by “Turning Red”

The Turning Red marketplace is the one I’m most looking forward to, as all of the offerings look stellar! First, the Red Panda Bao is a jumbo bao stuffed with vegetables, pork and a chili-garlic sauce. The word “jumbo” in the description indicates a single bao per purchase, though a sizable one.

You can follow this up with the Panda Apocalypse, a pan-baked, chocolate-layered brownie and New York-style cheesecake topped with orange and red cream cheese frosting. Finally, wash it all down with the Nobody Like U Cooler, a non-alcoholic beverage made with Joffrey’s Raspberry Rose Tea, white cranberry, lime & orange juices and cherry syrup, garnished with an orange wedge gummy.

3) Gusteau’s To-Go inspired by “Ratatouille”

It would’ve been criminal for Disney to feature Pixar-themed marketplaces at Pixar Fest and not include the most food-relatable IP in their portfolio. After all, Ratatouille’s entire premise was centered around a rat who loved to cook.

Gusteau’s To-Go’s criminally small menu consists of the Ratatouille Pizzetta topped with mozzarella, eggplant, squash, zucchini, a drizzle of tomato sauce, and a wedge of French camembert. The only other food offering is a macaron themed after Chef Gusteau, with creme brulee mousse and a caramel center.

The two alcoholic offerings, the Le Critique Cognac Sidecar and Little French Daiquiri, make up the only drinks on the menu, with no non-alcoholic options.

4) Portorosso Pasta inspired by “Luca”

Representing Italy, the Luca booth features only one food offering, but may be the most interesting of the bunch that has the potential to “steal the show”. It’s the Portorosso Pesto Pasta, Portorosso being the fictional Italian town where the movie is based. The dish is ribbon pasta tossed in a basil pesto with potatoes and green beans mixed in.

The non-alcoholic Sea Monster Lemonade consists of white grape juice, lemonade and peach syrup garnished with blue citrus mango jellies. Rounding out the drink offerings, the adults-only Silenzio Limoncello! has a Limoncello base with amaretto & Aperol liquors, blood orange syrup, lemonade and house-made oregano tea and garnished with micro daises.

5) Hanger Management inspired by “Inside Out” 

The Hanger Management marketplace offers a simple menu consisting of two variations of a basic macaroni and cheese dish. One of which is traditional yellow mac topped with a handful of Cheeto puffs and the other being the “angry” version topped with hot Cheetos. In all honesty, this is quite disappointing and uninspiring as it looks to be nothing more than boxed mac and cheese.

The cocktail appears to be a variation of a Maker’s Mule. It’ll have a bourbon base with watermelon liquor, candied orange & watermelon syrups, and orange & lime juices topped with ginger beer and garnished with watermelon candies.

I feel Disney dropped the ball here (the food, specifically). The food offerings are about as basic as it gets without any real creativity added whatsoever. Considering all of the mood elements featured in Inside Out, this marketplace could’ve been the stand-out with multiple incredibly creative dishes.

6) Elemental Table inspired by “Elemental”

If you’re looking for plant-based options, the Elemental marketplace is for you. Food offerings include a BBQ-spiced IMPOSSIBLE chicken dish with hot mustard sauce, pickles and charred onions, followed by the Kol Nut Whoopie Cookie Pie baked with cocoa powder and filled with cream cheese frosting and topped with crushed cinnamon candies.

The drink offerings, both of which are tequila-based, are visually stunning and will undoubtedly be popular. First is the H2O-rita made with tequila, blue curaçao syrup, lychee nectar, yuja purée and lime juice garnished with a rock candy stick. Lastly, the Exothermic Margarita consists of tequila, ancho chile liqueur, passion fruit nectar, lime & grapefruit juices and agave nectar garnished with a rock candy stick.

While there are some disappointments on the menus of the marketplaces (Hanger Management, specifically), overall, I’m looking forward to sampling the majority of them.

Of the all the cocktail offerings, the two at the Elemental marketplace are sure to be the clear stand-outs as they’re the most Insta-worthy of the bunch. As it pertains to food, I’m most looking forward to the jumbo bao at the Turning Red marketplace and the pesto pasta dish at Luca’s.

I’m going to reiterate my stance on what I believe is an epic let-down at the Hanger Management marketplace. I wish Disney would have gone the BBQ route here, offering a creative version of the classic pulled-pork sandwich with several emotions represented in different variations, or something similar.

Despite this, I’m predicting Pixar Fest will be a massive success. More and more, guests are clamoring for more “non-standard” Disney. Usually, that comes in the form of an After Dark event where in order to partake, you’d have to pay for another ticket.

Special events like Pixar Fest and Season of the Force, however, are available to all guests who hold a regular ticket or Magic Key, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy. With Pixar Fest looking like an un-official “foodie festival”, I hope to see it become a part of DCA’s annual line up of festivals. Time will tell.

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If so, be sure to stay on top of ride closures by reading (and saving) my 2024 Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar. To see all the activities taking place at Pixar Fest, read Pixar Fest 2024: 10 Things to Know. Additionally, to see the newly transformed Pixar Place Hotel, read my Tour of the Pixar Place Hotel post. Lastly, for deals on Disneyland tickets and vacation packages, see my friends at Get Away Today.

New Downtown Disney Restaurants Opening Soon (+ More Announced)

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

It’s time to ready your stomachs because two new, highly anticipated restaurants are opening soon in the Downtown Disney District! Additionally, we now have word of what’s coming to the location formally occupied by Tortilla Jo’s, which has recently permanently closed.

The two upcoming restaurants (well four, technically) I’m referring to are Din Tai Fung, Paseo, Centrico and Tiendita. These eateries were announced during the parks panel presentation during the loathed 2022 D23 expo and while progress has been slow, we’re now just a month or so away from these culinary delights making their debuts.

Let’s dive into the details of these restaurants and what we know about what’s taking over Tortilla Jo’s spot. Additionally, we’ll discuss the status of a few other eateries that have been confirmed, but haven’t yet began construction.

Paseo, Centrico, and Tiendita in Downtown Disney

As recently announced by Disney Parks Blog, this three-in-one eatery will open to guests in May. No specific date was given but considering that Mother’s Day is a massively profitable weekend for restaurants, I would imagine they would push to be open by then.

These concept restaurants are being brought to the Disneyland Resort by Mexico’s first Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytan. His dishes inspire a multi-cultural journey to his homeland of Huitzuco, Mexico, with style and technique from his culinary training in France.

I took the photo above in March and as you can see, much of the infrastructure of Centrico and most parts of Paseo are already done. Since this photo, they’ve begun installing tables and decorative features, indicating that an opening date is imminent.

In Paseo, a stunning wooden staircase leads you upstairs to the main dining room and bar lined with rich tiles, woods, textures, leathers and accents that showcase Mexico’s proud culture of craftsmanship. In addition to the main dining room, there will be an extended patio offering a unique view of Downtown Disney.

A full menu hasn’t been released yet, but a few examples you can expect include elevated versions of ceviches, roasted marinated pork, lamb barbacoa and mejillones (mussels). These dishes, and more, celebrate Chef Graytan’s love of his homeland, with nods to the French culinary style.

The courtyard bar and restaurant, Centrico, will occupy the space of the former Uva Bar in the center of the walking space through Downtown Disney. Its open, airy space designed with lush greenery and wooden elements create an upscale, yet relaxing environment for guests.

Again, we haven’t seen a full menu, but elevated quesabirria, chicken enchiladas, tlayuda (an Oaxacan, pizza-like sharable), Caesar salad and an assortment of tequila-based cocktails make up a few of the featured items.

Tiendita, the third and final element to this new concept, will serve as the quick-service location, with a variety of selections such as fish tacos, roasted corn, ice cream-stuffed chocolate tacos (you read that right) and breakfast favorites such as a chorizo burrito will be served.

This is great as the resort, Downtown Disney specifically, is severely lacking in the breakfast department. It’ll be great to have an option in the morning (and a quick one, at that) for a pre-park meal. Furthermore, Tiendita will feature self-ordering kiosks instead of traditional cashiers.

Din Tai Fung and More Upcoming Downtown Disney Restaurants

The next restaurant we’ve finally received an update on, and the one I’m personally looking forward to the most, is Din Tai Fung. Much like Paseo and Centrico, we don’t have a firm opening date yet, but Disney is advertising a summer 2024 opening.

Din Tai Fung is another Michelin-level restaurant coming to the resort, with the brand being based out of Taiwan. They’re known for the house-made baos, but also feature signiture soup dumplings, wontons, noodles, steamed buns, pork chop fried rice and a variety signature, crafted cocktails.

Furthermore, we now know the highly anticipated Ponto’s Bakery will move into the space currently occupied by Earl of Sandwich, in the building adjacent to the entrance to Disney California Adventure. Earl of Sandwich is in the process of moving into a temporary location near the Star Wars Store to accommodate this move.

Presumably, the current building will be demolished to allow Ponto’s to build a custom space. Earl of Sandwich will finally get its permanent space in the west end of Downtown Disney near the guitar pick-shaped stage.

New Steakhouse and BBQ Concepts Coming to Downtown Disney

Tortilla Jo’s, a long time Downtown Disney restaurant that’s been open since 2004, recently closed its doors for good. It simply didn’t fit in with the new aesthetic Disney is going for with the new Downtown Disney. For a while, what would take its place was a mystery. Until now, that is.

While Disney remains mum on the details, we now know that a new steakhouse and bbq concept will take the place of Tortilla Jo’s. Disneyland has been without a steakhouse since the closure of Steakhouse ‘55 at the Disneyland Hotel a few years ago and the resort has never had a proper BBQ eatery, so these will undoubtedly be welcomed additions.

It’s unclear if the steakhouse will be a revitalized version of Steakhouse ‘55 or one run by a third party. The latter of which is the most likely, as Disney already has a relationship with STK Steakhouse at Disney Springs in Florida. Personally, as long as it isn’t a Ruth Chris, I’m good either way.

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If you’re considering staying on property, read about our tour of the new Pixar Place Hotel. Additionally, get tips and advice on purchasing tickets by reading 10 Best Disneyland Tips: Tickets. Furthermore, stay updated on ride closures by reading and bookmarking my 2024 Attraction Refurbishment Calendar. Finally, to save money on Disneyland tickets and vacations packages, see my friends at Get Away Today.

An Overview of Disability Access Service (DAS) Changes at Disneyland

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

Recently, Disney announced changes to their Disability Access Service (DAS) that will apply to both the Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. This post will focus on what these changes mean for visitors to Disneyland so if you’re planning a trip to WDW, you read more about their details here.

DAS at Disneyland began a number of years ago with the intent of providing guests with certain disabilities who cannot wait in traditional queues a more comfortable experience at the parks. This service enabled those guests and their group to skip the stand-by queues in a manner much like how Genie+ works.

Unfortunately, DAS has been wrought with abuse over the years, enabling many who really shouldn’t be using the service to cheat the system by skipping lines. This has led to many issues, the worst of which being an over-inflation of wait times in stand-by queues and Lightning Lane queues alike.

The changes go into effect at Disneyland on June 18th and were made with the intention of both making the service easier to use for those who require it and to better prevent abuse and/or misuse. In this post, I’ll discuss the details of DAS, such as who can use it, how to sign up for it, policy changes and more.

What is Disability Access Service (DAS)?

As stated above, DAS is a service offered at Disneyland that provides guests with certain disabilities who are unable to wait in traditional stand-by queues quick access to select attractions in both parks. For the most part, those disabilities include autism and other development related disorders.

Instead of waiting in stand-by queues, guests utilizing DAS and their party arrive to their selected attraction during the designated return window, similar to how Genie+ works. Upon arriving, DAS guests will use either the Lightning Lane or exit to access to the attraction, bypassing the stand-by queue.

The total wait for each attraction is comparable to the posted time for stand-by but instead of waiting there, DAS guests spend that time elsewhere that’s more comfortable, or at another attraction or show that has a tolerable wait.

If you’ve ever used Genie Plus (or its predecessor, MaxPass), this process will be familiar to you. Like Genie Plus, you may select only one attraction at a time and can only make another selection once you’ve used your current allotment or a certain amount of time has passed. Unlike Genie Plus, you can select the same attraction more than once.

So what can you do while waiting for your return time? You can spend that time exploring the park, enjoying other attractions with shorter wait times (Adventureland Treehouse for example), meet your favorite characters or take this time to enjoy a meal or snack.

When approved, your DAS eligibility is good for every day on your Disneyland ticket or up to 120-days, whichever is shorter.

Who Can and Cannot Use DAS at Disneyland?

Once the recent changes have been implemented, only guests with “hidden” disabilities such as autism or similar developmental or mobility disorders that make it difficult to impossible to wait in traditional queues will be eligible for DAS.

Another feature of the program is the ability to take strollers (if the DAS eligible guest requires it) all the way to the loading area of the attraction. Most guests must leave strollers in the designated area outside of the attraction but DAS guests are given exceptions. In order to take advantage of this, be sure to ask for a stroller tag when you sign up.

If the guest’s disability requires the use of a wheelchair or scooter, that guest will not need DAS unless there are additional elements to the disability that might require it. Otherwise, those guests should refer to the cast member at each attraction about what to do.

At most attractions in Disneyland park, this typically means accessing the attraction through the exit as stand-by queues in the older attractions aren’t ADA friendly. The modern attractions in the park, in addition to those at California Adventure, do have ADA compliant queues.

If your mobility issue prevents you from standing for long periods of time but doesn’t require the use of a wheelchair or scooter, you may be asked to bring or rent one as the solution as you may not be eligible for DAS as it’s mostly for guests with “invisible” disabilities.

Furthermore, at Disneyland, you do not need to provide proof of disability as Disney take guests at their word. However, the more details you can provide to the cast member, the more they’re able to help you. It’s best to be perfectly honest as if it’s proven a guest has lied about the disability, they’ll face a lifetime ban from both Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

How to Sign Up For DAS at Disneyland

There are two ways to sign up for DAS. You either speak with a cast member on arrival at the park or online via DAS Advance up to 30-days prior to the first day of your visit. Keep in mind that starting June 18, you will no longer be able to sign up inside the park, as that service will be moved outside in the esplanade.

Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, but no matter which option you go with, the guest requiring DAS will need to be physically present. If that guest is a minor, the parent will be able to speak for them, but they’ll still need to be present as they’ll have their photo taken. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure that you have all of your tickets purchased by then.

How to Sign Up For DAS Advance

The advantages to DAS Advance are; it’ll be done in an environment the guest is comfortable with (they’re home) and as an added bonus, the cast member will assist you with making your first two attraction selections for each day of your visit. You can register to begin that process at this link.

As mentioned above, you may begin the process through DAS Advance up to thirty days, but no less than two days prior to the day of your first visit. The downfall to DAS Advance is the wait for a cast member can be long, especially in the afternoon and evening. Logging in first thing in the morning is key to avoiding a lengthy wait.

DAS Advance key info:

• Hours of availability are 9am - 8pm

• It is currently only available in the English language

Before beginning your video chat, be sure to:

• Log into your Disney account

• Review and accept the terms & conditions

• Ensure park tickets are linked together in the account

• Make sure the guest requiring DAS is physically present

Once you’ve connected with a cast member, you’ll discuss with them your needs. If approved, you’ll be able to select two DAS return times for select attractions for each day of your visit. Some of these attractions include Matterhorn Bobsleds, Big Thunder Mountain, Incredicoaster and Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission BREAKOUT.

How to Sign Up For DAS in Person

If you choose to wait until you arrive (and you’re arriving prior to June 18), make your way to guest services inside either park to inquire. At Disneyland Park guest services is at City Hall and in DCA, you’ll find it just past Oswald’s to the left, just inside the gate.

The only real advantage to this is it’s typically faster than doing it in video chat, but that could be offset if there are many others in line. People go to guest services for several reasons, not just to sign up for DAS, and there are usually only a small handful of cast members available to assist.

This could get worse starting June 18 as guests of both parks will need to go to a single location in the esplanade. A particular location hasn’t yet been announced, but it’ll likely be one or two of the unused ticket booths. For this reason, I highly recommend signing up through video chat.

How to Use DAS at the Parks

Using DAS in the parks is easy and similar in nature to Genie Plus, as you’ll book your attraction return times within the Disneyland app. You can also ask cast members stationed throughout the park to do it, but it’s much quicker through the app. To make your first selections (aside from the ones you made in the video chat) you must be scanned into the park.

One you’re in the park, open the Disneyland app and sign into your account. Scroll to the “More” option at the bottom of the main tab. Then, tap the DAS button to see available attraction selections. Note that only guests who have been approved for DAS will be able to view this.

When you arrive to the attraction for your return time, simply hold your phone or MagicBand up to the Mickey-shaped scanner to access the attraction. Keep in mind that the person who was approved for DAS must scan theirs first, followed by the rest of the group.

If you have a park hopper ticket, you will not be able make DAS selections for the other park until you have been scanned into it. For example, if you’re currently in DCA, you won’t be able to make a DAS selection for an attraction in Disneyland until you’re actually in Disneyland.

Which Rides and Attractions Work With DAS?

At Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, guests with DAS can access all attractions. Including the ones without Lightning Lanes. This is especially advantageous for DAS guests as those with Genie Plus can only access select attractions.

For example, none of the Fantasyland attractions, aside from Matterhorn Bobsleds, are included with Genie Plus. Since these attractions don’t have Lightning Lanes, you’ll likely access the ride through the exit where a cast member will scan you in. If you’re unsure, just check with a cast member.

Additionally, the attractions with Individual Lightning Lanes are also included in DAS and do not require a separate purchase. These attractions include Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance in Disneyland and Radiator Springs Racers at DCA.

If an attraction you have a return time for were to break down, you will be issued a “Multiple Experiences Pass”. Normally, this pass would only work on attractions that are on Genie Plus but with DAS, you’ll be able to use it on any attraction.

Does DAS Work During Special Events?

Generally, no, DAS does not apply to special events such as After Dark Nites and Oogie Boogie Bash. Reason being is because during these events, there are far less people in the parks than a normal day and the majority of event attendees are there for the special event’s offerings, not the rides.

As a result, the lines for attractions during these events are mostly on the short side, at most. When we attended Disney Channel Nite in March, most of the attractions were walk-ons, with Space Mountain having the worst line of the night at just twenty minutes.

The sole exception to this is the Villains Grove attraction during the annual Ooogie Boogie Bash at DCA. Though there are ways to avoid it, the queue for Villains Grove is often long, so cast members are stationed near the entrance to assist DAS approved guests.

How Many Guests Can Be in a DAS Group?

With the old policy, the general consensus was six to a group (five family members for every one DAS guest). However, it wasn’t exactly a hard and fast rule as cast members didn’t want to break groups up so essentially, your group could be as big as you wanted it to be.

As of June 18, 2024, you’ll be permitted four to a group (three family members for every one DAS guest). From what I’m hearing, this is going to be enforced much more than it used to be, but you can discuss that with the cast member during the sign up process.

While there are no guarantees, if the fifth person in your group is a child or an elderly parent, you stand a good chance of gaining an exception. Remember, Disney’s goal here is to reduce abuse of the system, so don’t count on everyone being approved if you have a large group.

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If so, be sure to read my review of the new Pixar Place Hotel. Additionally, read up on the multiple aspects of dining with my 2024 Disneyland Dining Guide. Furthermore, learn how to save money at Disneyland by reading 10 Best Disneyland Tips: Food and Drink. Finally, to save money on Disneyland tickets and vacation packages, visit my friends at Get Away Today.

Our Tour of the Pixar Place Hotel at Disneyland

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

In 2022, Disney announced what many Disney fans were longing for since the reimagining of Paradise Pier into Pixar Pier in 2018; the loathed (I’m probably sugar-coating it a bit) Paradise Pier Hotel would receive an reimagining of its own into Pixar Place Hotel.

Unlike other Disney projects, it didn’t take long for Disney to begin the construction process on the project. Slowly but surely removing old references of its former identity and throwing in splashes of badly needed color and character (literally).

With this transformation, it was also announced that Southern California favorite Great Maple Modern American Eatery would take over the space inside the hotel once occupied by PCH Grill. Great Maple would go on to open to guests months before the grand reveal of the hotel’s refreshed identity.

Finally, in late January, 2024, the transformation was completed (sort of) and guests could now say they were staying at the first Pixar-branded hotel in the company’s extensive portfolio, and the reviews have been largely positive.

Admittedly, I initially thought this was going to be another cheap re-theme of an already cheaply re-themed, aging property, but Kisha and I recently had the opportunity to tour it and I must admit, the Imagineers did a wonderful job. They indeed redeemed what was once considered Disney’s worst hotel.

So what does the exterior and interior look like? How about the rooms? Wondering if the food at Great Maple is worth it? I answer all of these questions and more in the post below. Let’s get into it.

Pixar Place Hotel Exterior, Lobby and Great Maple Restaurant

If you are at all familiar with Paradise Pier Hotel, it wouldn’t take long for you to notice the stark difference of the new exterior. While a bit bland, the newly painted building’s eggshell white exterior is complimented by the Pixar reds, yellows and blues, beating out the building’s former uninspiring, drab look of yellows and greens by a long shot.

Additionally, branded signage has been added to the upper portions of the building on either side. At night is when the hotel’s exterior comes to life, as a newly installed lighting package illuminates the walls. I feel the street-facing portion of the building could use some additional signage to give it more character but as is, it’s a huge upgrade.

Upon entering the lobby from the hotel’s main entrance off Disneyland Drive, you’ll immediately take notice of a large scale model of Pixar’s long-time mascot Luxo Jr balancing on another iconic symbol of Pixar, the Pixar ball. Additionally, you’ll also take notice of the dozen or so color changing panels hanging above from the upper atrium.

A plethora of seating options and faux plants have been added to area, making it a nice place to hang out while you wait for check-in or for the rest of your party to arrive. Just to the right of Luxo is the hotel’s sole gift shop STOR-E, a quick-bite eatery and coffee spot called Sketch Pad Cafe, and further down the hall, Great Maple Modern American Eatery.

We had the chance to dine at Great Maple during our tour and it instantly became one of our favorites on property. Prices are a bit high, but the service was great, the food was delicious and the vibes were vibin’. If you want to read more extensively about our experience and what we ordered (including prices), you can read my review here.

Continuing with the tour, to the left of the Luxo statue is where the check-in desk, elevators and additional sitting areas are. Here is where Imagineers went wild with Pixar theming elements. Across from the check-in desk is a lounge-style seating area themed after Finding Nemo, on the walls behind the check-in desk are illuminated portraits of several Pixar characters and near the staircase is a jazz-style piano where Joe Gardner from Pixar’s Soul makes sporadic appearances.

In addition to Joe Gardner, another regular character appearance is Bing Bong from Pixar’s beloved movie Inside Out.We spotted him by the Luxo statue, but I have heard he also makes regular appearances on the pool deck for hotel guests. Don’t count on either of these characters being a permeant fixture at the hotel, as Disney will likely phase them out as the newness of the hotel dissipates (or swap them out).

One thing I noticed about the lobby was how peaceful it was in comparison to the Grand Californian’s lobby. GCH’s lobby is top-tier and my favorite, but it’s often busy as non-hotel guests from the park utilize it for mid-day park breaks, mixing with the already heavy hotel guest crowds.

Of the two, GCH definitely has the better lobby, but we were at Pixar Place in the middle of the day on a Saturday when both parks were packed and we had it largely to ourselves. Furthermore, we were in the lobby at several points of the day and aside from check-in time, there were very few people around.

Pixar Place Hotel Pool Deck

On the third-floor rooftop deck you’ll find an abundance of seating, a pool, splash pad, whirlpool and the 186-foot water slide themed after several characters from Finding Nemo. The pool area is fenced off and only accessible with a room key. Out of respect for people’s privacy, I didn’t photograph the pool area. However, Disney was kind enough to provide the above photo.

The remaining area of the rooftop deck is open to all guests, whether you’re staying at the hotel or not. Here you’ll find fire pits in the form of several Pixar characters, ample lounge-style seating and overhead lighting. With the fire pits providing warmth and the walls blocking the wind, I can see this eventually being a popular hangout space among locals.

If you plan to book, keep in mind that the pool area is fairly undersized for a Disney hotel, as compared to the Grand Californian and The Disneyland Hotel’s pools. While winter won’t be a problem, I can definitely see it being one in the summer. Especially in the afternoon when many families take a break from the parks.

Additionally, a cast member tipped to us that the pool deck is a great place to watch the evening fireworks show. During the show, the lights are dimmed and music is piped in. Even though you don’t need to be a hotel guest to access it, most people are unaware of this spot so it’s rarely ever crowded. If you just want to see the fireworks and don’t care where you watch them from, this is a solid option.

Pixar Place Hotel Rooms

Guest rooms have received a serious upgrade from their previous set-up with, you guessed it, several not-so-subtle touches of Pixar-themed decor all throughout the room. Pixar has never been known to be subtle, though, so it works with their brand identity.

Coming from someone who typically prefers hotels with the “less is more” philosophy as it pertains to room decor and color palette, I can make an exception here. If you are going to book a room at a hotel branded after Pixar, stepping into an animated multi-colored room shouldn’t come as a surprise, after-all.

Most rooms come with a pull-out sleeper couch, though in the two queen rooms pictured above, the sleeper is twin-sized whereas the king bed rooms come with a queen sized sleeper. Either one would be advantageous for families with several children, though. Additionally, one and two-bedroom suites are also available. Additional room features include:

• Tons of indirect and recessed lighting options

• A work desk with a literal (bolted down) Luxo Lamp

• Mini-fridge and coffee maker (K-cup variety)

• An abundance of USB and USB-C ports

• Storage options

• Shampoo, conditioner and body wash dispensers on the shower wall

Your view will depend upon the room you book and floor you receive. Most east facing rooms get a view of Disney California Adventure, with elements of Pixar Pier and the Cadillac Range of Cars Land highly visible. These rooms could offer an excellent vantage point of the park’s nighttime spectacular - World of Color.

West facing rooms won’t get as good of a view, as all you’ll see is the hotel’s pool and a vastness of parking spaces (for now, that is). I say this because if Disney gets their way with their DisneylandForward expansion plans, these rooms will have a prime view of whatever land they’re planning to build there (Pandora, anyone?).

For now, if you don’t book a room with a prime view of DCA, you could always utilize the elevator and get the “in between the towers” view, as pictured above, for free. Though I wouldn’t count on it being crystal clear as it seems someone forgot the “clean the elevators” element of the redesign (during our tour, anyway).

Pixar Place Hotel Nightly Rates

Like any hotel, rates at Pixar Place will vary based upon season and availability but generally, you should find Pixar Place to be a couple hundred dollars cheaper than The Disneyland Hotel and a few hundred less than the Grand Californian. I say generally because if the lower-tier rooms at either property sell out, Pixar Place will command higher prices as a result.

Furthermore, despite the official re-opening in late January, there are still many yet-to-be finished rooms unavailable to guests. They are expected to be completed later this year but in the interim, expect the dip in available inventory to inflate nightly rates.

That said, I would expect Pixar Place to fluctuate between the $350 - $600 range for a basic room with either a standard or premium view throughout the year. For club level, tack on another couple hundred, probably more once the club level lounge opens later this year.

While Pixar Place is still considered third place behind the Grand Californian and The Disneyland Hotel in terms of class, it is now at least on-par with many of the higher end good neighbor hotels with this re-branding and new amenities, which makes the price tag much more tolerable than it was previously.

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If so, read about the changes made to Advance Dining Reservations at the resort. Additionally, read about the upcoming closure of Critter Country and what I think Disney should do with the area. Furthermore, read about what to expect during this year’s Pixar Fest here. Finally, to save money on Disneyland tickets and hotel packages, visit my preferred Disney travel agency, Get Away Today.

Visiting Disneyland in September 2024

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

Is Disneyland Crowded in September?

Historically speaking, September has always been the best time of year to visit the Disneyland Resort (well, part of it anyway). The best time, of the best time, to visit Disneyland is between the end of August and mid-September.

That timeframe is loaded with days on the low end of the crowds spectrum. Typically by Labor Day, many schools in Southern California are back in session and parents are back in the office. Since Disneyland is largely a local’s park, it sees a temporary dip in attendance in that period.

One caveat to this that could end up making a liar out of me is the fact that for the first time at Disneyland, Halloween season begins in late August. In prior years, it began in mid-September and caused a spike in crowd levels that would continue to snowball until after well Christmas.

Another wildcard this year is the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction. The current opening timeline is being billed at, “late 2024”. However, there’s been significant progress on the attraction in the last couple months, making the possibility of a September opening a decent one.

I doubt Disney wants to open this attraction in the colder months, as wait times for water-based attractions are typically low, for obvious reasons. Disney needs Tiana’s to be a smash hit, so opening it when the temperatures are still fairly hot would be preferable as demand would surely be high.

Looking at the single-day tickets calendar, weekdays during the first two weeks are priced at the low end of the spectrum at $104. Some view this as an indicator that it’ll be a slow day, but it could potentially be a situation where you might want to utilize the, “zig while they zag”, strategy.

The reason I say that is because value-seekers will likely see that price as an opportunity to go doing those low-demand days which in turn could cause crowds to swell. Weekends surge to the $160 mark and weekdays in the latter half of the month aren’t far behind that.

Keep in mind that since locals are back in school and work, the bulk of the crowds you are going to see will be in the mid-afternoon and evening hours. If you commit to rope dropping the parks and being back at your hotel by 1:00 or 2:00pm, your opinion on how crowded it is will largely differ from someone who didn’t arrive until 5:00pm.

Something else to consider is the annual Oogie Boogie Bash party at Disney California Adventure. On Oogie Boogie nights, DCA closes early to regular ticket holders, often causing a huge migration across the esplanade to Disneyland park, causing an even bigger swell.

With Halloween beginning in August this year, this is yet another wildcard that could have an adverse effect on crowds during a traditionally slow time. As it pertains to evenings, anyway.

That said, as the month progresses and Halloween gets into more people’s minds, the crowd levels will steadily rise. Due to this, I’ll stick with my usually recommendation and say go ahead and book dates between the last week of August and mid-September.

You’re going to get all the benefits of visiting during the Halloween season with far less crowds than any other time. Do be weary of weekdays, though. As I discussed above, that $104 price tag could make weekends more favorable if you can swing the extra cost.

Anaheim Weather in September

Anaheim generally has pleasant weather in September. The humidity remains low despite day-time temperatures often exceeding 80 degrees for the majority of the month. It’s more of a dry heat, though, and generally isn’t too bad.

Night-time lows dip into the mid-sixties for the first half of September. As the month progresses towards October, it’ll get down to the low sixties while rarely going below that. Many assume that because it’s Southern California it’s always warm. That isn’t the case, so be sure to pack a hoodie.

Precipitation is nearly non-existent as September is one of the driest months in Orange County, so I definitely wouldn’t bother with packing an umbrella or rain jacket.

Overall, aside from a few unusually high temperature days, September is great month, weather-wise, to visit Disneyland.

Disneyland Resort Hotel Rates

Disney has years worth of historical crowd pattern data to go off and they’re known for maximizing profits whenever and wherever they can. One of their most profitable sectors in which to do that is nightly rates at their branded hotels.

The Disneyland Resort currently has three; the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, The Disneyland Hotel and Pixar Place Hotel. They each vary in rates and amenities, but all offer an opportunity to stay within the Disney bubble. Disney considers resort hotel guests to be the most valuable.

Hotel rates are a good indicator of expected crowd patterns for any specific period because as stated above, Disney will maximize their profits however they can. So if they’re expecting a busy week, their hotels will command high nightly rates.

The following are averages of the three resort hotels listed above. Keep in mind that if you decide to book, your average may be lower or higher than what I’m listing below. Disney prices their hotels dynamically, similar to how airlines price tickets, so they’re easily affected by demand, major area events, etc.

Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Rates: The ‘Grand’ is always priced the highest as it’s Disneyland’s luxury, high end resort. For a standard view room, the average rate in September is $761.24. For a club level room with the same view, the rate spikes to $1,351.31.

The Disneyland Hotel Rates: This is Disneyland’s original hotel (though there isn’t much of the actual original hotel remaining) and is considered their mid-range offering. For a standard view room, September’s average rate is $588.90 and for a club level room of the same view, you’re looking at $987.45. For a deluxe studio in the Discovery (Villas) Tower, it’s $680.99 per night.

Pixar Place Hotel Rates: Pixar Place is Disneyland’s newest(ish) hotel offering, recently completing it’s years long transformation from its previous Paradise Pier Hotel brand. For a standard view room, you’re looking at a nightly rate of $481.25 and $692.25 for club level.

Disney is definitely trying to entice people to stay on-property as the rates for September are indeed lower than they were in July or August. You may think that’s obvious since those are summer months but in recent years the holiday season has rivaled summer as the resort’s busiest time of year.

After breaking up the averages between the first and second half of September, the average rates are higher in the latter half than they are in the first. That’s a huge indicator to me that, despite the early kick-off of Halloween at the resort, Disney is still expecting lower crowds in that first half.

Disneyland Rides Closed in September

Disney typically doesn’t release attraction refurbishment information until 45-days ahead of time. At the time of this post’s publishing, that’s a ways off. While I don’t have anything concrete to offer at this time, I do have some suspicions as to what’ll be open or closed.

Firstly, as discussed above, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure could, in theory, be open by September. I have my doubts, personally, but it’s definitely possible given the recent progress. If I had to bet the farm, I would say September is a pipe dream at the moment.

On the flip side, I am fully expecting Haunted Mansion to reopen in time for the kick-off to the Halloween season as Haunted Mansion Holiday. It would be an “egg-to-the-face” moment for Disney if their biggest holiday attraction isn’t open in time, so I believe they’ll make it happen.

If you haven’t heard, Disney is walling off Critter Country in May in order to convert two of the land’s gift shops into themes after two supporting characters from Princess and the Frog, among other smaller projects. While I don’t know how long this closure will be for, I would be shocked if it was still closed come September.

All that said, Disney would have completed the major refurbishments by this point, as they cannot afford to lose more capacity during their incredibly busy holiday season. Still, I would anticipate a few quick closures here and there, but nothing big.

Still, there’s always the chance that both Tiana’s and Haunted Mansion experience construction delays and thus, remain closed. If this happens, capacity throughout the rest of the park will suffer as a result. I’ll keep my eyes on these and update this post as credible information becomes available.

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If you’ll be visiting during Halloween, be sure to read 2024 Disneyland Halloween Guide to read about what to expect, tips and more. For tips and advice on tickets, read 10 Best Disneyland Tickets: Park Tickets. To learn about the changes made to Advance Dining Reservations, read Improvements Made to Advance Dining Reservations at Disneyland. Finally, for great deals on Disneyland tickets and vacation packages, visit my friends at Get Away Today.

Improvements Made to Advance Dining Reservations at Disneyland

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Anyone who’s ever tried making an advance dining reservation (ADR) for a Disneyland restaurant knows how frustrating that process can be. Depending on the restaurant, the competition for a table could be fierce.

Making matters worse, using the website or app to find an available ADR was often annoying.. If there wasn’t anything available and you wanted to search for another day, you were forced to back out of the current page and begin your search all over again.

Recently, Disney announced a few changes to the ADR search process that have since been implemented. Among those changes is the ability to search for an available ADR over a period of up to ten days all at once!

Additionally, tabs are now displayed above the ADR results, indicating which meal period is being displayed. For example, if you don’t see a desired result for dinner, you can now just select the “lunch” tab for instant results, again, without having to completely start over.

This update is now available on both the Disneyland website and app (both iOs and Android). Below, I’ll discuss these changes in greater detail and what you can expect moving forward.

Issues with Advance Dining Reservations at Disneyland

Disneyland die-hards are well aware of the potential complexities of making an ADR. If you’re new to Disneyland and/or ADRs (and if you’re reading this I’m assuming you are), then you’re likely unaware of the common hiccups and loopholes involved.

For example, a seasoned planner would know not to take the unavailability of ADRs at face value. Often, one would simply need to continuously hit refresh between meal period and time searches and an available ADR would magically appear.

Additionally, with the cancellation policy instituting a per person fee if not followed, if you checked again in the days leading up to your desired date (or even day-of) you would, at times, find last minute availability.

Before these recent changes, there have always been a few rules pertaining to advance dining reservations guests had to follow. They are:

• You may make an ADR up to 60-days in advance

• You must provide a credit card to guarantee your ADR

• You must cancel within the stated window to avoid a penalty

These are still true today and apply to all guests, regardless of whether you’re a resort hotel guest or simply visiting for the day. The problem, however, was that the playing field was not level for all, as casual guests often find themselves at a disadvantage due to not being aware of reservations.

If you weren’t a seasoned pro and didn’t look for ADRs first thing in the morning 60-days out, you would often find yourself out in the cold. Even worse, most casual guests aren’t even aware that you can make reservations that far out (or even at all). So they’ve arrived disadvantaged.

These new features won’t solve these issues entirely, as I feel Disney needs to do a better job at advertising the reservation policies to guests and said guests need to do their own legwork to secure them, but they certainly help to smooth out a previously bumpy process.

The New 10-Day Search Feature for Dining Reservations

As mentioned above, when searching for a Disneyland ADR, you would select your desired date, party size and meal period. You would then be presented with a list of restaurants with availability within the parameters of the information you have entered.

Assuming you weren’t satisfied with the results and wanted to search for another day of your visit, you would need to back out and begin the process all over again. Meaning, you would need to re-enter all of your information, not just a new date.

With the recent change, you can now search up to ten days at once, making the process much easier. You have two options in which to do this:

1. Select “Check all Availability” on the Disneyland website or “Check Dining Availability” in the app. Then select your party size, desired date, and meal period. You’ll then presented with a list of restaurants. Under each restaurant, you’ll see “Check Availability for Multiple Days”. Select that to search a range of up to ten days if you don’t see any initial times.

2. On the Disneyland website, go to the “Things to Do” tab and select “All Dining”. You’ll be taken to a list of all restaurants. Those that accept ADRs will have “Check Availability for Multiple Days” underneath them. Select that to conduct a range search right from the beginning.

For some reason, Disney IT decided to implement the ten-day search differently between device and method. In the first example above, you cannot conduct a range search from the start when using the app. For some reason, you’re forced to search a singular date before being presented with the ability to select a range of dates.

This presents a potential issue because by having to initially search for one day, you’ll only be presented with restaurants that have availability for that specific date. Other restaurants may have availability on days at either end of the selected date but because you’re presented with limited options, you won’t have a full list to work with.

For example, say you want to dine at Lamplight Lounge for dinner and you’re utilizing the app to conduct your search. You search for May 12 for a party of four, but since there’s no ADRs available, Lamplight wouldn’t be included in the list and consequently, you’re never given the opportunity to search for that particular restaurant.

To circumvent this, I recommend using a computer (or the browser on your phone) to access the actual website. This way you can select the “All Dining” option to see a list of ALL restaurants that accept reservations and conduct a date range search right from the beginning.

Additionally, there will be four tabs at the top of the search results for different meal periods. They’re presented in time ranges, but essentially are for breakfast, lunch, dinner and an “all” option. If you don’t see availability for dinner, you can now easily hit the “Dinner” tab for instant results, rather than having to start over.

As you can see in the image above, the search results will be presented in descending order from top to bottom according to date and for the reservation times, from left to right beginning with the earliest.

The amount of available reservations will vary depending on which restaurant you are trying for, as some are more in demand than others. You’ll seldom see wide open availability for the harder-to-get eateries. Some of these include:

• Lamplight Lounge

• Blue Bayou

• Napa Rose

• Carthay Circle

The less popular restaurants typically have many options for dining times, often in just a few days notice or even day-of. In the search results for these restaurants, you’ll often see availability in 15-minute increments, rather than a spatter of random times. Some of these restaurants include:

• Wine Country Trattoria

• GCH Craftsman Bar & Grill

• Great Maple Modern American Eatery

• Cafe Orleans

Ultimately, I’m happy with the changes Disney has made to the ADR process. There’s definitely some fine-tuning that needs to occur, along with additional changes for the quirks and annoyances that remain. Overall, it’s made the process less time consuming and more efficient for the guest, which should always be the goal.

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If so, be sure to read 10 Best Disneyland Tips: Park Tickets for tips on saving money on tickets and how to avoid getting scammed. If you’re visiting in May or June, be sure to read Disney Closing Critter Country Indefinitely in May. For information on Pixar Fest, read Pixar Fest 2024: 10 Things to Know. Finally, to save money on Disneyland tickets and vacation packages, visit our friends at Get Away Today.

The 17 Offerings From the 2024 DCA Food and Wine Festival We Loved

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A couple of weeks ago, we attended our very first Food and Wine Festival at Disney California Adventure and let me say, it was an awesome experience.

We deviated from our usual tactic of hitting every attraction we can and devoted the entire day to trying as many of the foods as we could, while also checking out the festival’s live music and vibes.

While we didn’t get around to trying everything (we can only eat so much, after all), we were able to try quite a bit - a total of 20 different foods and drinks. Not all were hits, though.

In this post, I’m going to discuss 17 of those 20 that were we enjoyed, what we liked about them, what we didn’t like, etc., in hopes it’ll help you decide whether or not you’d like to try them yourself. Some of them will be listed in a single list, as I grouped one or two into one photo.

Before we get to the list, be sure to also read my post, The 2024 Food & Wine Festival Sip and Savor Pass: 8 Things to Know. If you’re wanting to try multiple food offerings, you’ll want to purchase this pass because if you use it correctly, you’ll end up saving money with it.

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#1 - The Frozen Old Fashioned

Marketplace: Golden Dreams

Price: $7.00

Let’s begin with dessert, shall we? The frozen old fashioned is a non-alcoholic bourbon-flavored ice cream bar, with bitters crema, orange zest glaze and topped with cherry spheres (bobas).

Many online have stated that while it’s delicious, it doesn’t taste anything like an old fashioned and there’s no hint of bourbon. I disagree. I did get a hint of bourbon in the ice cream, but it dissipated quickly. The main flavors I got from it were the orange zest and cherry.

To be fair, yes, it didn’t taste like an old fashioned, but I don’t think it was ever intended to. It has all of the old fashioned elements in an ice cream bar, hence the name. Honestly, there wasn’t anything about it I didn’t like.

#2 and #3 - Blueberry Pancake Cold Brew & Fig Matcha Latte

Marketplace: Golden Dreams

Price: $7.00 (Fig Matcha) / $7.25 (Blueberry Pancake)

Golden Dreams was the first marketplace we tried in the morning when the festival began, so it was only natural that we needed a quick caffeine boost.

I ordered the Blueberry Pancake Cold Brew, a returning favorite of festival goers. It’s made with Joffrey’s Coffee, a variety of syrups, oat milk and blueberry flavored sweet cream and garnished with what Disney describes as, “cinnamon-flavored cereal crumbles”. In other words - Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

Kisha ordered the Fig Match Latte. It’s made with matcha, soy milk, coconut and simple syrups, fig oat sweet cream and garnished with matcha powder.

I liked the Blueberry Pancake just fine but honestly, I didn’t get much blueberry out of it. Additionally, I found the cereal topping to be nothing more than a novelty as they got soggy rather quickly and got lost in the unbearably think ice Disney uses for their cold brews.

The Fig Matcha Latte, on the other hand, was a surprising hit for me. I’m not much of a matcha fan, but this drink won me over. Perhaps it was the sweetness from the fig that balanced it out? Either way, I would order it again.

#4 - Grilled Top Sirloin

Marketplace: Garlic Kissed

Price: $9.00

The Grilled Top Sirloin at the Garlic Kissed booth was in my top three favorite festival offerings. You’ll receive several pieces of grilled sirloin steak with black-garlic chimichurri, on a bed of roasted garlic-gruyere mashed potatoes.

It’s difficult for a theme park to prepare steak bits for the masses without it becoming dry. While, admittedly, the steak was a bit overcooked, the seasoning was incredible. Throw in the garlicky flavors of the chimichurri and potato mash and you have a winning dish.

#5 - The Olive Oil Cake

Marketplace: D*Lish

Price: $7.00

For my money , the olive oil cake was the clear winner of the dessert options. Yes, it beat out the frozen old fashioned. The cake itself was much like a Twinkie, but more dense. It’s glazed with lemon curd and topped with vanilla bean Chantilly, finished with fresh candied lemons, strawberry crunch and a lemon-lime Gelee.

Don’t be fooled by the name, as it seems olive oil has more to do with the baking process of the cake, rather than a visual ingredient. Furthermore, the “lemon-lime Gelee” is straight-up flavorless jello. I didn’t get any lemon-lime from it at all. It’s more of a decorative piece than anything.

Those two things aside, both Kisha and I thoroughly enjoyed the olive oil cake. The lemon flavor wasn’t overbearing, it was lite and refreshing, and the sweetness of the cake was the perfect follow-up to the hearty grilled sirloin dish we just ate.

#6 - Carnitas-style Pork Belly

Marketplace: LA Style

Price: $9.00

Forgive the photo above, but the lighting was horrible in this area of the park and I was having focusing issues with my camera.

Moving on to the food. For this dish, you’re served a small helping of amazingly seasoned pork belly with a side of mac salad, topped with Tajin habanero.

I’ll be perfectly honest, I didn’t give the mac salad the time of day. I had zero interest in it. I did devour the pork belly, however, as it was delicious. It was fatty, but that’s to be expected with pork belly. Additionally, it wasn’t dry in the slightest. We thoroughly enjoyed it.

For what it’s worth, Kisha did eat the mac salad and loved it. She said it wasn’t soupy like mac salad can sometimes be, but not dry either. She also felt the flavor from the Tijin habanero elevated it greatly.

#7 - Butter cake a la mode

Location: Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream

Price: $7.99

Many don’t realize that the marketplaces (festival booths) aren’t the only locations where you can find special festival offerings. Many of DCA’s year-round eateries have gotten into the festivities as well.

One such eatery is Clarabelle’s, located adjacent to Fiddler, Fifer, and Pratical Cafe (or simply…Starbucks) on Buena Vista Street in the park’s hub.

Their festival offering is the butter cake topped with vanilla ice cream, fresh strawberries and whipped cream. It’s a simple dish that we both loved!

Keep in mind that yes, you can use your Food & Wine Sip and Savor pass for the butter cake here, but not any other item on the menu.

#8 - Cheese Pizza-Flavored Wings

Marketplace: Cluck-a-Doodle-Moo

Price: $8.50

This one wasn’t on many people’s “favorites” list but admittedly, I have a fairly basic palette and I’m not too hard to please. Though my palette has gotten a bit more refined in recent years, I still like to throw it back from time-to-time, and pizza flavored chicken wings fits the bill nicely.

I see what others are saying about the wings being too dry, as mine were, but only a little bit. Perhaps I got a good batch? Not sure, but they weren’t that bad. The seasoning consisted of what I can only describe as the same “dust” you would find on pizza-flavored Pringles. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though.

I preferred to eat them without the ranch, but Kisha used it as she felt the wings needed it. I was perfectly fine without as I’ll take a solid dry rub over a saucy mess anytime.

#9 - PB&J Whiskey Shake

Marketplace: Nuts About Cheese

Price: $16.00

The PB&J Whiskey shake was, to me, the clear winner among the drink selections. Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The shake is made with a peanut butter whiskey (Screwball, possibly), raspberry liquor, vanilla ice cream, Joffrey’s Mexico Origin coffee, with peanut butter and raspberry syrups.

As stated above, this was my favorite drink of the festival. I didn’t get any hint of raspberry at all, but both the peanut butter AND whiskey were apparent. I had no idea peanut butter and whiskey went so well together.

Its price does sting, but it isn’t far off from the usual price you’d pay for cocktails. I initially complained (to myself) about the portion size but considering how strong it was, I feel like they couldn’t make it any bigger without things flying off the rails from those who can’t handle liquor well.

Keep in mind that because this is an alcoholic drink, you cannot use your Sip and Savor allotments for it and there are no Magic Key discounts either.

#10 - BBQ Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese

Marketplace: Nuts About Cheese

Price: $9.00

Initially, neither of us had any interest in this one, as even I felt it was too basic, but we had a couple of spare allotments on our Sip and Savor Pass and didn’t want to waste them. Honestly, I’m glad we ended up trying it.

For the most part, it’s your garden variety mac and cheese (not low quality, but definitely not great) topped with a decently seasoned, fairly dry pulled pork. What helped to save it, though, was the crispy dill pickle onions hiding underneath the pulled pork.

I’m not saying they elevated this offering into a gourmet-level dish or anything, but for me (again, basic palette) the crispy dill onions lifted it out of obscurity. If there’s a picky eater in your group, they’ll almost certainly enjoy this.

#11 - Chile Relleno Empanada

Marketplace: Peppers Cali-ente

Price: $8.50

The Chile Relleno Empanada ended up being Kisha’s favorite food offering. It was a last-minute decision as we initially wanted the Shrimp Papas Locas, but switched to this and no, we don’t regret that decision.

It’s an empanada with a roasted chile inside, topped with arbol pepper salsa, Oaxaca and Cotija cheeses. While not overbearing, the empanada did have quite a kick to it. However, the “kick” was mostly flavor based, instead of novelty heat. It dissipated quickly without the need of a drink.

For me, this offering landed a spot in my top three. Every flavor worked cohesively and had a perfect amount of heat. Additionally, the pastry had zero sogginess to it. It had a nice crisp and flakiness to it.

#12 - Tangerine Tiki Cocktail

Marketplace: Cluck-a-Doodle-Moo

Price: $17.00

This was our second alcoholic drink during the festival and while I strongly favor the PB&J Whiskey shake, the Tangerine Tiki cocktail came in at a close second.

The cocktail is made with dark rum, vanilla-citrus liqueur, tangerine and lime juices, honey syrup and garnished with a dried red pineapple wheel.

It was close to the middle of the day when we ordered this, so this lite and refreshing, tropical drink hit the spot. Though I feel there was a lot less rum in this drink than the amount of whiskey in the shake.

#13 - Napoleon churro

Location: Churro Cart near Redwood Creek Challenge Trail

Price: $7.25

We’ve had our fair share of Disneyland churros. Normally, we stick to the tried and true churro with traditional cinnamon sugar. For the festival, however, we broke from that and tried the Napoleon churro from the cart in Grizzly Peak.

It was more than we were expecting, as it’s actually two churros rolled in strawberry sugar and topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle. In a word…it was OUTSTANDING. The only criticism I have, and this is mostly personal preference, is I would’ve preferred a dark chocolate sauce to balance out the sweetness from the strawberry.

While I’ll always love the classic Disney churro, I wouldn’t be mad to see the Napoleon become a permeant fixture at this churro cart.

#14 - Mickey-Shaped Macaron w/ Snikers

Marketplace: Nuts About Cheese

Price: $7.75

As you can see in the photo above, this thing was HUGE. I’ve never had a macaron before, but I have seen them and don’t recall them being this size. I guess they had to justify the nearly $8 price tag somehow.

The macaron is in the shape of Mickey Mouse and made with caramel ganache, Snickers pieces and topped with peanuts. As a fan of Snickers, I thought it was good but at the same time, it was way too big. Definitely bring a plastic baggy for this one.

#15 - The Fun & Fruity Beer Flight

Location: Festival Beer Garden near Paradise Grill

Price: $18.50

During our mid-day break from the festival, we headed over to the Festival Beer Garden to watch a local band, Westside 6, perform a set. While there, we decided to order the Fun & Fruity Beer Flight.

All the beers were good, but the clear stand-out was Fuzzy Logic Peach (number two in the photo above). I’m not sure how to review beer as I don’t drink it often, but it had a great taste. It was on the lite side, refreshing and didn’t give me that bloated feeling other beers do.

#16 - Cheeseburger Bao

Marketplace: California Craft Brews

Price: $8.50

In the interest of transparency, let me state that this was another dish that I had no interest in trying. Kisha, on the other hand, loved it and insisted it be added to the list. So here it is.

My better half reports that the cheeseburger bao tastes exactly as it’s named - a cheeseburger. The bao wasn’t dry at all and the meat inside was flavorful. Topped on the bao are the same ingredients you’d find on a burger, thousand island dressing, grilled onions, pickle and relish.

#17 - Carbonara Garlic Mac & Cheese

Marketplace: D*Lish

Price: $9.00

The final dish on this list was also our favorite, the carbonara mac and cheese featuring Nueske’s Peppered Bacon. If I could imagine a perfect mac and cheese dish, it would be this one.

The saltiness from the bacon pieces, in combination with the garlic, in addition to the crunch from the bread crumbs, elevates this otherwise simple (but classic) dish.

There’s a reason why it continues to reappear, festival after festival. If you’re only going to try one dish at the California Food and Wine Festival, make it this one.

Planning a trip to Disneyland? For information on tickets, be sure to read 10 Best Disneyland Tips: Park Tickets for advice. If you’re visiting during the Food and Wine Festival, read The 2024 Food & Wine Festival Sip and Savor Pass: 8 Things to Know. To read about our recent experience at the resort’s newest restaurant, read Our Experience at Great Maple Modern American Eatery. Finally, to save money on your Disneyland tickets and vacation packages, see our friends at Get Away Today.

I want to hear from you…

Did you attend this or last year’s California Food and Wine Festival? What did you try and which were your favorites? Is there anything on this list you would’ve left off or added on? Sound off in the comments below.

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Star Wars: Season of the Force 2024 Foodie Guide

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

On the morning of March 25, Disney finally announced the foodie guide for this year’s Star Wars: Season of the Force event taking place at Disneyland Park and, partially, at Downtown Disney.

The event begins in the spring and runs through early summer and celebrates all things Star Wars. Throughout the event, there will be a new way to watch the fireworks from within Galaxy’s Edge, exclusive merchandise, limited-time experiences and themed food offerings.

Season of the Force begins on April 5 and will culminate on June 2, running (partially) concurrently with Pixar Fest, which is mostly taking place across the esplanade at Disney California Adventure.

So what are the food and drink offerings going to be this year? Where will they be sold? I answer these questions and more in the post below. Let’s get into it.

Tomorrowland Star wars offerings

As mentioned above, the majority of the Star Wars festivities will be taking place at Disneyland park, mostly within two of the park’s lands, Galaxy’s Edge and Tomorrowland.

You won’t find any Season of the Force offerings at Disney California Adventure as there isn’t anything Star Wars related in that park and DCA will be busy hosting the majority of Pixar Fest activities.

In Tomorrowland, the only restaurant that will be offering Star Wars-themed foods is Galactic Grill, as Alien Pizza Planet will be preoccupied with celebrating, you guessed it, Pixar Fest.

The above are reference photos provided by Disney, showcasing the foods and drinks you’ll be able to order at Galactic Grill. They are, in order from top left to bottom right:

• Bantha Burger: An angus beef and vegetable patty, marinated pork belly, American cheese, Asian-inspired slaw and “sambal” sweet mayo on a toasted brioche bun (new offering)

• Chorizo Loaded Fries: Waffle fries, pork chorizo, chile de arbol cheese sauce and black beans, topped with avocado-tomatillo sauce, green onions and Oaxaca cheese

• Wookiee Parfait: Chocolate sponge cake, chocolate pudding and caramel mousse on a chocolate-coffee crust with chocolate pearls

• Watermelon Slush with Death Star glow cube (new offering)

• Granny Smith Apple Slush with Millennium Falcon glow cube

For me, the two stands outs from this line up at the chorizo fries and Wookiee parfait. In prior years during Halloween, Disney sold a favorite of ours, the “Darth by Chocolate” parfait at Galactic Grill. It’ll be interesting to see how the Wookiee version of the parfait will hold up against it.

Also offered in Tomorrowland are two, sure-to-be insanely in-demand popcorn buckets themed after Jabba the Hut and a “Salvaged Stormtrooper Helmet”.

The Jabba the Hut bucket will be sold at two locations - Galactic Grill and the popcorn cart near Star Trader. The Stormtrooper helmet will also be sold in those locations, in addition to several locations within Galaxy’s Edge.

The press release stats that these will be available “beginning April 5”, which is the start of the seasonal event, but doesn’t mention an end date. Indicating they could possibly (and probably) sell completely out before the end of the event.

Disney’s themed popcorn buckets have surged in popularity over the last few years, often commanding huge queues upon their release and selling out quickly. I predict these two will be no different and will, given their themes, likely eclipse past buckets.

The aforementioned popcorn buckets won’t be the only food-related accessories you’ll be able to purchase at Galactic Grill. Others, in order of top left to bottom right in the photo above, include:

• Darth Vader Stainless Steel Tumbler

• Grogu Sipper

• Millennium Falcon Popcorn Bucket

• Death Star Glow cube

Both the stainless steel tumbler and sipper will include a fountain beverage at time of purchase, but they will not entitle you to free refills.

In addition to Galactic Grill, you’ll also be able to purchase the Darth Vader tumbler at GCH Craftsman Grill at the Grand Californian Hotel. Additionally, the Gorgu sipper will also be sold at the Tomorrowland fruit cart.

Not pictured is the Darth Vader premium mug, also sold at Galactic Grill. It’ll include the option of a fountain beverage or bottle of DASANI water at time of purchase. ALL of these accessories are limited to two per person.

Star wars galaxy’s edge offerings

The fun doesn’t stop at Tomorrowland as Galaxy’s Edge is also getting in on the fun. Here is where the new fireworks experience named "Fire of the Rising Moons” will take place. Note this isn’t a separate fireworks show, but a new way in which to view it.

From within Galaxy’s Edge, you’ll be viewing the same fireworks show as everyone else but instead of hearing the show’s usual music, you’ll hear Star Wars-related music. It’s essentially like you’re watching fireworks in actual Batuu, furthering the immersive nature of the land. Personally, I’m excited for this.

Let’s get back on track with the food offerings at Galaxy’s Edge. While all food-related locations in the land will be offering something, the vast majority are concentrated between Docking Bay 7, the sole quick-service location in the land, and Oga’s Cantina, which you’ll need a reservation or join the walk-up list to get into.

There will be two new entree offerings at Docking Bay 7. One is a returning favorite and the other is a brand new option. They are:

• Fried Chicken Baos: Two crispy chicken boas with spicy katsu sauce and creamy slaw (new offering)

• Dewback Chili Noodles: Spiced fettuccine noodles with gingered ground pork, broccolini stems and red cabbage shred

They couldn’t have come up with two dishes more perfect for Kisha and I. Kisha is a huge fan of baos and those spicy noodles are calling my name. We can’t wait for them to hit the menu.

Unfortunately, they won’t be selling a specialty cold brew, outside of the usual Black Caf. I’m a sucker for cold brews and while I love me a Black Caf, I would’ve liked to have seen another option added to the event line up.

At Oga’s Cantina, five brand new galactic-themed drinks will make their way to the menu. Four of the five contain alcohol while the fifth is the sole kid-friendly option. They are:

• Oga’s Obsession: Minute Maid lemonade, wild strawberry flavor, yogurt-filled boba, garnished with strawberry and grape candle pebbles (Nerds)

• Fiery Mustafarian: El Mayor Añejo Tequila, Aperol Aperitivo Liqueur, peach purée, peach syrup and lime juice served with a dropper of spicy lava syrup

• Silver Sea Martini: Hendrick’s Gin, Minute Maid Lemonade, ginger syrup, honey and mint syrup with a shimmery butterfly pea flower tea topping

• Chandrilan Chalice: Hendrick’s Gin, Minute Maid Lemonade, ginger syrup, honey, and mint syrup topped with a shimmery butterfly pea flower tea served in a souvenir wine glass

• Chandrilan Orb Glass: El Mayor Añejo Tequila, Aperol Aperitivo Liqueur, peach purée, peach syrup and lime juice served with a dropper of spicy lava syrup in a souvenir wine glass

Normally, I don’t get excited over the food and drink accessories sold at Disneyland. This one, however, might be the one that breaks me. In addition to the drinks above, Oga’s also selling a beer flight served on a souvenir board with four Rancor teeth.

I have no idea how much it’s going to cost, as Disney neglected to list that detail in their press release. My guess is a minimum of $50, as this will surely be a high-demand souvenir. I’d make a reservation early in the day to ensure you can get one.

Rounding out the options in Galaxy’s Edge is the Pasaana Punch at Ronto Roasters (pictured in the top photo), the Celto Slush at Kat Saka’s Kettle and the Toydaria Swirl at Milk Stand.

Ronto Roasters is known for their delicious Ronto Wraps, but also for their specialty beverages like the famed Tatooine Sunset (a personal favorite of mine). I’m curious to see how this new beverage compares.

Resort Hotels & Downtown Disney offerings

The seasonal offerings continue throughout the resort, namely at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and select locations in the Downtown Disney District.

At the snack cart near the lobby of the Grand Californian, there will be several Star Wars-themed treats for sale, similar to the ones sold during the holidays and other events. One such example, as pictured above, is a Grogu shaped macaron.

Additionally, the lobby will feature a massive, showpiece cake in the shape of the Millennium Falcon arriving in Black Spire Outpost. Designed by Disney’s in-house culinary team, this cake will surely impress. It’ll only be available to view from April 5 - May 31.

Furthermore, two of the hotel’s restaurants, GCH Craftsman Grill and Hearthstone Lounge, will serve a “Bitter Martini” made with Hendrick’s Gin, Campari liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup and green grapes. I’m not much of a gin person, but I’ll likely give this one a shot.

In Downtown Disney, there were only two eateries listed as participants in Season of the Force. They are Salt & Straw and Splitzville Luxury Lanes.

At Salt & Straw, they’re serving up an interesting, frozen concoction called, “Maraschino Cherry with Tye-Dye Marshmallow Fluff”, made with pink and blue marshmallow “milky way” fluff with purple, dark cherry ice cream.

If you’re a fan of sushi, you’ll want to head over to Splitzville. On the menu will be the “Cosmic Roll”. It’ll feature nori wrapped around sushi rice with tempura-fried kanikama crab, avocado, jalapeños and crispy garlic topped with eel sauce and sesame seeds.

When it comes to libations, only one drink is making its way to their menu. It’s called the “Order 2018”, made with gin, Italian liqueur and fresh-squeezed citrus (pictured on the right of the photo collage).

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If you’ll be visiting for Pixar Fest, read Pixar Fest 2024 at Disneyland: 10 Things to Know. For information about the different aspects of dining, read my 2024 Disneyland Dining Guide. Furthermore, for information and tips, read 10 Best Disneyland Tips: Food and Drinks. Finally, for great deals on Disneyland tickets and vacation packages, as well as expert travel assistance, visit my friends at Get Away Today.

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Disney Closing Critter Country Indefinitely in May (+ My Thoughts)

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

Disneyland is currently in the process of reimagining the former Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and as part of that reimagining, it’s been recently announced that Critter Country, the land in which the attraction is located, will temporarily close to guests on May 1 for an indefinite amount of time.

The purpose of the closure is to transform two of the land’s current gift shops, The Briar Patch and the left half of Pooh’s Corner, into shops themed after two popular supporting characters from the Princess and the Frog movie, Louis the Gator and Raymond the Firefly.

This closure signifies to me that construction on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is moving along nicely (though still behind), and this new project puts us one step closer to an opening date. Don’t get too excited, though, as we’re still months out, with a presumed opening timeline around Thanksgiving or later.

This is in stark contrast to Walt Disney World’s version, who closed their Splash Mountain months earlier than Disneyland did, and while there’s still no hard opening date, its timeline has been recently updated from “late 2024” to “summer 2024”. Lucky them, right?

I haven’t heard anything credible regarding the opening date of Disneyland’s version but as stated above, I’m sure there’s a push from Disney to have it ready by Thanksgiving time. It could get pushed into January, but Disney likely wants to avoid the “go woke, go broke” crowd by opening it before winter, when water-based attractions typically see low wait times and give a false perception that they’re not popular.

Disney wants needs this to be a smashing success. So opening the attraction during the busy holiday season would be ideal, as demand for it would surely be off the charts. Anyway, let’s back to Critter Country.

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Which Critter Country Gift Shops Are Getting reimagined?

As mentioned above, Disney is closing Critter Country in order to transform the land’s two gift shops into themes more aligned with Tiana. First, The Briar Patch, the sole-remaining remnant of Splash Mountain’s Song of the South theme, will be reimagined into Ray’s Berets (named after Raymond the Firefly, who served as a guiding light, of sorts, for Tiana in frog form).

The gift shop will sell similar merchandise as it does currently, with selections including headware, apparel, accessories, toys and more, with Raymond and his firefly kin in the coziest cabin in Critter Country. Don’t expect a lot of Tiana or bayou-like merchandise, as Disney will likely stick with the generic stuff at this location.

With the exterior lighting package that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is expected to receive, and this gift shop being themed after a firefly, I expect the lighting package for Ray’s Berets, as seen in the concept art above, to be a nice complement to the neighboring attraction and a sight to see all its own, particularly at night.

At the other end of Critter Country, near the exit of the former Splash Mountain, is where Louis’ Critter Club (currently Pooh’s Corner) will be. Before you freak out, it’s important to note that only about a third of Pooh’s Corner will be consumed by Louis’, as part of the current shop and the entirety of the treats portion will remain as is.

Louis’ Critter Club will be themed after Louis, the trumpet-playing Alligator who befriended Tiana and Prince Neveen in the movie. The character was named Louis as a way to honor legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong, who was born and raised in New Orleans.

Disney has stated that the gift shop will offer merchandise such as apparel, accessories, home decor and more, featuring Tiana and her critter friends. This is the shop I predict will have mostly Tiana-themed merch, with some generic park-wide stuff sprinkled in.

As you’ll see in the concept art above, there will be a lot of new design elements added to this shop. There are band posters plastered on the walls of the gift shop, in addition to the “break room” porch on the roof. If you zoom in, you’ll see instruments and other musical props.

Considering Louis played a trumpet and dreamed of being accepted by humans as a legitimate jazz musician (he did so at the end of the movie), I would expect to hear zydeco music emanating from the porch or gift shop in general. If you don’t know, zydeco music was created in rural Southwest Louisiana and is a blend of blues and rhythm & blues. Pull up your preferred music streaming app for examples.

In addition to the gift shops, Disney has stated that they’ll, “continue to invest in the improvements of the pathways and other areas to provide a better guest experience”. This could mean numerous things, but I honestly don’t anticipate huge changes as I doubt this project will be a long one.

How critter country closing will affect crowds

With construction projects mandating the closure of two of Disneyland‘s biggest people-eater attractions, Splash Mountain and Haunted Mansion, capacity in the park has taken a hit in recent months. When high capacity attractions close, it sends a ripple effect throughout the park, causing otherwise lower wait times at other attractions and walkways to swell.

So the addition of Critter Country to the closure list is definitely going to affect crowds. If you’re visiting Disneyland in May, or potentially even June or July, prepare for crowds to feel more dense than they usually do. Of course, how dense they’ll get entirely depends upon how much of Critter Country will be closed to guests.

I seriously question whether Disney will close the entirety of Critter Country, as that’ll only make the current capacity issue much worse than it needs to be. If they do completely close it, I don’t expect it to begin until just after Hungry Bear Restaurant in order to keep the pathway to Galaxy’s Edge open in order to maintain guest flow.

In regards to Hungry Bear itself, I presume Disney will keep it open as it’s a high capacity quick-service restaurant and they definitely do not want to lose that. Additionally, Disney will likely use this time for a quick refurbishment of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, keyword being “quick” because, again…capacity.

I’m sure you’re sick of hearing about capacity at this point, but it has everything to do with this project and thus, this post. Capacity determines how many tickets Disney can sell in a particular day. Decreased capacity means less available tickets, which equates to less money for Disney.

My belief is this project won’t be a long one and Critter Country will presumably reopen prior to the peak tourist season in July, if not, definitely before the beginning of the Halloween season in late August. That’s also when I’m predicting the Haunted Mansion, with its Nightmare Before Christmas overlay intact, will also reopen.

Regardless of how much of the land closes, it’ll definitely have an effect on crowds. Not necessarily more people, as all this construction will keep some away, but because of the decreased capacity, the remaining walkways around the park will become dense. I doubt it’ll reach the levels of Main Street U.S.A after a fireworks showing, but it’ll be noticeable.

‘The Bayou’ - a missed opportunity?

I’m going to turn to commentary now and discuss some blue-sky ideas of my own. I’m sure I’m going to get pushback in the comments over this, but I feel like Disney maintaining the “critter” theme of the area is a missed opportunity.

Before we get too deep into this, realize that this isn’t meant to be perceived as hate or disdain for Critter Country or Winnie the Pooh, as I’m a fan of both. The original animated movie was a favorite of mine as a kid and the older I get, the more I appreciate the serene environment of Critter Country, with its obvious ties to Hundred Acre Wood.

My position has more to do with immersive, continuous theming than anything else. Walt Disney himself stated that he never wanted Disneyland to become a museum, but rather, continue to evolve and improve. Sometimes, that means replacing beloved attractions, lands and elements.

So what is my idea? From the start, when Disney first made the announcement of Tiana’s takeover of Splash, I hoped and prayed that Disney would do away with the Critter Country theme, Winnie the Pooh included, and simply rename the land, “The Bayou”, a mini-land acting as a natural extension of New Orleans Square.

Keep an open mind and think about it for a minute. Tiana’s gift shop, Eudora’s Chic Boutique, and restaurant, Tiana’s Palace, are both located in New Orleans Square proper, which in this scenario would act as New Orleans, the city. Tourists visiting Tiana‘s locations in the “city”, would then have to make their way to “The Bayou” in order to experience her tourist attraction, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, much like they do in actual New Orleans with bayou boat tours.

Over in “The Bayou”, the two aforementioned gift shops would receive the same re-theming they are getting now, with Hungry Bear becoming “Louis’ Gator Shack”, or something to that effect. Structurally, Hungry Bear wouldn’t need to change at all. Simply swapping out signage, a refreshed menu and music elements would be all that’s needed.

Now let’s address the yellow bear in the room and discuss what they would do with the Winnie the Pooh attraction and meet n’ greet. Personally, I would’ve loved to have seen the attraction reimagined into one themed after Raymond the Firefly, or even Mamma Odie. The ride vehicles could easily become fireflies in their current form and neither the track or layout would need to change. All that would be needed are new ride elements, lighting and props.

The neighboring meet and greet, where Winnie the Pooh and friends currently meet guests, would feature characters from the movie, such as Louis, Prince Naveen, Dr. Facilier, Tiana herself and perhaps even Mama Odie. Speaking of Mama Odie, she could takeover Pooh’s Corner. The storyline being she uses her magical powers to concoct delicious bayou treats for guests.

You can tell that I’ve thought a lot about this. As much as I would love to see these ideas become reality, I fully understand and acknowledge Disney’s desire to keep Winnie the Pooh featured in Disneyland, as that little, yellow bear is a merch-moving monster.

However, I have a potential solution. Over at Walt Disney World, their version of the Winnie the Pooh attraction is located in Fantasyland. At Disneyland, there isn’t much space in their Fantasyland, but they could remove the seldom-used Fantasyland Theatre and transform that area into a mini-land themed to the Hundred Acre Wood.

Considering pooh-bear can move merch like none other and is consistently one of Disney’s most popular IP’s, I think giving Winnie his own, dedicated land is more than justified. Plus, Disney would be doing what, exactly? Increasing capacity! It’s a win-win in my eyes.

Still, depriving Pooh fans of their favorite bear, even for the short-term, is a gamble Disney probably isn’t willing to make. I get it, I understand it, but I stand firm on my opinion that the current Critter Country should be transformed into “The Bayou”. Perhaps it will be in the future, but I’m not holding my breath.

Planning a trip to Disneyland? If you’re considering visiting in May, when Critter Country closes, read A Guide to Visiting Disneyland in May. For tips and advice regarding dining, read 10 Best Disneyland Tips: Dining. Additionally, be sure to keep up with ride closures and future projects by reading my 2024 Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar Guide. Lastly, check out my friends at Get Away Today for deals on Disneyland tickets, vacation packages, hotels and more.

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

Are you planning to visit Disneyland in May or even into the summer months? What is your opinion of the Critter Country makeover? Are you excited for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure? What do you think of my ideas about removing Critter Country and retheming it into The Bayou? Anything to add? Sound off in the comments below.

Our Experience at Great Maple Modern American Eatery in the Pixar Place Hotel

During the D23 Parks Panel event in 2022, Disney released a slew of details pertaining to the soon-to-be newly rechristened Pixar Place Hotel. Among them was a new location for Southern California favorite, Great Maple Modern American Eatery restaurant.

After waiting months and much to the delight of Disney fans, Great Maple opened its doors to guests on November 15, 2023, a few months prior to the official re-opening of the newly branded Pixar Place Hotel.

This is the fourth location for the brand, with its flagship in nearby Newport Beach and two others in Pasadena and San Diego, respectively. The menu is the same for the latter two and Anaheim locations, but differs slightly from the San Diego location.

Great Maple features a unique, all-day menu, meaning you can order from the brunch or cocktail menu no matter the time of day. Brunch favorites include French Toast Logs, Smoked Bacon Scramble, Cajun Shrimp Biscuit Benedict and the Fried Chicken and Maple Doughnuts dish.

If brunch isn’t your thing, you can order from their “mains” offerings, including Soda Pop Baby Back Ribs, Maple Pecan Crusted Salmon, Lemon Shrimp Pasta, in addition to a variety of sandwiches and burgers. And least we forget, they offer delicious, house-made doughnuts topped with maple and bacon, in addition to seasonal offerings.

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Restaurant Location, Entrances and Reservation Difficulty

As previously stated, Great Maple is located on the bottom level of Pixar Place Hotel, in the space previously occupied by the often loathed PCH Grill. There are two entrances to the restaurant, one from within the hotel and another from the sidewalk along Disneyland Drive. For those who are wondering, you do not need to be a guest of the hotel to dine here.

It doesn’t particularly matter which entrance you use, as the street-side entrance takes you through a small hallway before leaving you at the hotel’s interior entrance, anyway. I doubt the street-side entrance will be used often, as hotel guests are already inside anyway.

Furthermore, if you’re getting dropped off via an Uber or Lyft, your driver will likely drop you near the hotel lobby, as it’s a safer and less stressful option for them. Additionally, if you’re walking to the restaurant from the parks or Downtown Disney, you’ll likely use the backside entrance to the hotel before making your way to the restaurant’s interior entrance.

The only guests I can see who will utilize this entrance are those coming from the Grand Californian Hotel and Spa across the street, as the crosswalk places you just feet away from it, or off-property guests walking up from the southern end of Disneyland Drive or Katella.

It doesn’t seem that Great Maple has caught on fire in Anaheim just yet, as reservations are easy to come by right now. As I type this, reservations are available in one hour and continue throughout the day. Looking ten days out, they’re wide-open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. (By the way, reservations are made via the Disneyland website or app).

They’ve only been open a few months, so as time progresses and word gets out to more locals and out-of-state visitors, I wouldn’t be surprised to see that easiness subside a bit, though I don’t predict it’ll reach the level of difficulty of the likes of Napa Rose and Lamplight Lounge.

Despite that, if you’re keen on dining at Great Maple, I would still recommend securing a reservation, just in case. You never truly know what crowd patterns will be like at the resort these days and as previously stated, word will eventually get out about Great Maple. There’s always the possibility of sitting at their 360-bar if they’re full, which you can order food from and usually doesn’t have much of a wait anywhere you go.

Great Maple Interior, Our Entree Selections and Service

Great Maple features a stylish, brightly-lit interior with a modern-contemporary flare. Touches of gold and white can be found throughout, with a variety of blue and cream hues making up the fabric of the benches in the booths.

On the walls throughout the restaurant are portraits of some of Pixar’s legacy characters, such as Buzz Lightyear and Jessie in the back patio, and Woody and Bo Peep near the restaurants main entrance. The portraits are original drawings of the characters, drawn to appear as if the characters themselves posed for them. They’re done in the noir art style, which I found to be a nice touch, personally.

There’s tons of seating in the interior, with many booths and standard tables capable of hosting a variety of party sizes. The restaurant’s capacity expands with the addition of the open-air patio, with additional booths and table-top seating. This is where we sat. We appreciated the fresh air, soft sunlight and low traffic noise from Disneyland Drive.

One negative I will get into now is the volume of the music. In the main area of the restaurant, it wasn’t too bad, but I feel like they cranked up the speakers in the back patio to drown out the traffic noise. Personally (and this could just be because I just turned 40), I found the music to be way too loud, as it was difficult hearing my wife or our waitress speak.

The menu is all-day, meaning you can order breakfast, lunch, dinner or craft cocktails at any time throughout the day. We were here right around brunch time and already had a good idea of what we wanted to order. It’s a good idea to research the menu before going (it’s actually a tip from my “10 Best Disneyland Dining Tips” post).

Since it was my birthday, I ordered the Fried Chicken and Doughnuts plate ($27). If you order this, you’ll receive a hearty portion of two pieces of fried chicken and likewise, two of their popular maple bacon doughnuts, both of which come with a lite drizzle of maple syrup and powdered sugar.

While I had no issue clearing my plate, this entree could easily be split between two children (or even two adults if you don’t have huge appetites). I would’ve preferred to have had only one doughnut with the two pieces of chicken myself, but I digress. The chicken was fried to perfection, with absolutely no overly crunchy or burnt parts anywhere. I have no idea what their seasoning mix is, but it’s delicious, regardless.

Kisha ordered the Cajun Shrimp Biscuit Benedict ($27), another featured entree from their brunch menu. The plate is made up of cajun buttered shrimp, cooked arugula and two poached eggs on a white cheddar biscuit, topped with a cajun hollandaise sauce. Served with it is a sour cream and onion scalloped potato square.

She reports that there was nothing about the dish she didn’t like. The shrimp was cooked to perfection, which is generally hard to come by in a restaurant setting. Additionally, she felt there was just enough sauce, the entire dish was seasoned well and the biscuits weren’t dry at all. We both agreed that the dish would also be a good split option for families.

We also ordered a couple of cocktails with our meal. It may not have been noon yet but hey, time doesn’t count when you’re on vacation, right? I ordered the Maple Bacon Old Fashioned ($18) and my better-half ordered the Expresso Martini ($22).

The former is made with bacon washed bourbon, maple syrup and Angostura bitters, served with a piece of torched bacon. I’m no connoisseur of whiskey, but I’ve had my fair share of old fashioned cocktails and can say that while it isn’t the best one I’ve ever had, it was definitely unique, tasty and easily drinkable.

The latter of the above cocktails on the other hand, the Expresso Martini, was easily one of the best cocktails to ever grace my tastebuds. When Kisha let me try it, I immediately regretted not ordering it. This drink is made up of vodka, Kahlua, Baileys and Cafe Moto Expresso, topped with cinnamon powder and coffee beans. It’s expensive for sure, but it’s so good that it would be criminal not to try it at least once.

Finally, to top off my birthday brunch, it was suggested that I try their seasonal doughnut, which has the same frosted base as their usual maple bacon option, but instead of bacon, it was topped with Lucky Charms, which hit me right in the millennial feels.

You can purchase these doughnuts in a plate of three for $9, or order a single (not advertised on the menu), which is what I did. I forgot to look at what the price was for one doughnut, but I imagine it was around the $3 mark. The doughnut was just ok. The Lucky Charms were more of a novelty than anything, as most of them fell off as I ate it. If you’re deciding between this or the maple bacon, the choice is obvious.

Finally, let’s discuss the service. To put it simply, it was fantastic. Our waitress was so kind, friendly and prompt. Even when we came back two days later to sit at the bar for a quick drink, she walked by, immediately recognized us and spoke with us for a moment. I wish I could remember her name because she was truly amazing.

It wasn’t a busy day when we dined, so we received our orders promptly. The gentleman who brought out the food and drinks was also friendly and kept checking on us throughout our meal. After we had paid the bill, he surprised me with a bowl of ice cream for my birthday, and treated me to a solo rendition of the “Happy Birthday” song. Was it awkward? A little bit, honestly, but it was an awesome gesture nonetheless.

All told, before tip and after my Magic Key holder discount, our final bill was $109.43 for the two of us. Even by Disney standards, that was hard to swallow. We didn’t exactly budget for this, though, as we splurged on a few side options and cocktails, so it wasn’t completely surprising.

If you’re a Magic Key holder, definitely take advantage of the discount. Since this is a third-party restaurant, key holders receive a flat 10% no matter the key tier. Another way to bring down the price, as mentioned above, is to split entrees between children. The two we ordered, plus many more, are totally splittable.

Due to the prices, we both agreed that we wouldn’t eat here every time (or even every other time) we visit, but we do feel that the quality of the food, portion sizes and great service make it a worthy destination and help ease the pain of the menu prices a bit. In my book, Great Maple Modern American Eatery is a welcomed and fantastic addition to the resort restaurant line-up.

Planning a vacation to Disneyland? For information and advice on tickets, read 10 Best Disneyland Tips: Park Tickets. To learn about Advanced Dining Reservations and other aspects of dining such as Mobile Order and Mobile Walk-Up, read my 2024 Disneyland Dining Guide. If you’re visiting during Pixar Fest, read Pixar Fest 2024: 10 Things to Know or for Halloween visits, read Disneyland Halloween 2024 Guide.

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

Have you dined at Great Maple yet? What was your experience and which entree/cocktail did you try? If you haven’t dined here yet, are you planning to give it a try or does Great Maple not seem like it’s for you? Do you have another on or off-property restaurant to recommend? Sound off in the comment section below.

The 2024 Food & Wine Festival Sip and Savor Pass: 8 Things to Know

There have been several changes for the Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival in 2024. Among them are how to purchase and use your Sip and Savor Pass.

For those who are unaware, the Sip and Savor Pass is a coupon book of sorts that comes with a certain amount of allotments, of which you can redeem for tasting-sized portions of festival offerings.

While the Sip and Savor Pass isn’t new to the festival, there have been quite a few changes made, such as how to use it, how many allotments you receive, cost and more, as stated above.

In this post, I will discuss several aspects of the Sip and Savor Pass, eight to be exact, so you can make the best possible choice of whether or not it is worth it to you to purchase it.

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1) There are two versions of the Sip and Savor Pass this year

In prior years, the Sip and Savor Pass came with the same number of allotments - 8. For locals, this was great as they were able to spread out their redemptions throughout the length of the festival. For individuals who were only visiting for a single day, or those who only wanted to try a few of the offerings, eight was too much and thus, they wouldn’t purchase the pass.

In response to this, Disney changed it up for 2024 and are now offering two passes - the traditional pass with eight allotments and one with just four. This is great as it now enables those who are only visiting for a short time a way to save money. The prices for each pass are as follows:

• $61 for the eight allotment pass ($56 for Magic Key holders)

• $31 for the four allotment pass

No matter which pass you decide to go with, you can redeem your allotments anytime throughout the festival, which in 2024 is March 1 - April 22. After the conclusion of the festival, your allotments will expire and you will not receive a refund or credit.

2) Magic Key holders only receive ONE discount

While Magic Key holders do receive a few perks throughout the festival, discounts don’t seem to be prominently among them. In fact, the only discount you’ll receive is with the purchase of the eight allotment pass. You will not get a discount on the four allotment pass.

Additionally, be aware that if you do not purchase a pass and decide to purchase the offerings individually, you will not get a discount at the booths when doing so. Again, the only discount you will get is on the eight allotment Sip and Savor Pass ($56 for Magic Key holders).

Additionally, none of the third party stands at the festival offer discounts and as is the case with any other location on property, there are no discounts on alcohol.

If you’re a Magic Key holder and you purchase either Sip and Savor Pass, you’ll receive a special Magic Key lanyard. Additionally, there’s a shaded enclave between Avengers Campus and Cars Land with tables and chairs for key holders though during my visit, there wasn’t a cast member regulating it.

3) There are multiple locations where you can purchase Sip and Savor Passes

Most people will head for the Sip and Savor cart to purchase their passes. The cart is located in the Performance Corridor, just past Carthay Circle and across from the Grizzly Peak waterfall. If you’re here during the first couple hours of park opening, there won’t be much of a queue (we waited about five minutes).

However, if there is a significant queue at the cart, there are multiple alternatives that, since most people don’t know sell passes, rarely ever have an extensive wait. These include:

• Elias & Co. and Julius Katz & Sons, both of which are gift shops on Buena Vista Street

• Rushin’ River Outfitters, located at the Grizzly River Run exit

• Seaside Souvenirs, located in Paradise Gardens Park near Corn Dog Castle

• The Festival Merchandise Booth, located in the Performance Corridor, across from the former entrance to the Little Mermaid attraction

Additionally, I have heard rumors that if you’re a registered guest at the Grand Californian Hotel, you’ll be able to purchase a Sip and Savor Pass somewhere in the lobby, though I haven’t been able to confirm this. Furthermore, there are no locations in Downtown Disney or Disneyland Park that sells them.

4) New in 2024, redemptions are now digital

In prior festivals, the Sip and Savor Pass would come with eight physical, pull-off tabs on the sides and/or bottom of the pass. When redeeming one, you would break the tab off and hand it to the cast member taking your oder.

This year, and presumably going forward, the physical tabs are gone and the passes are now scannable. Now, to redeem one of your allotments, the cast member will scan the barcode on the back of your pass and you’ll enter your pass’s four-digit code on the credit card machine.

Assuming it goes through, the cast member will usually inform you of how many allotments you have remaining but if they don’t, it’ll also be printed on your receipt. Many people have complained online of this change but personally, I found it to be much more efficient than the tabs (and less wasteful, to boot).

5) There are two queues at the booths - one for ordering and another for pick ups

Throughout the festival at the marketplaces, you’ll find two queues - one for ordering your selections and another for pick ups. After you’ve paid for your selections or redeemed your allotments with the cast member, you’ll be given a receipt.

Take your receipt and find the pick-up queue for the same booth you ordered from (usually located on the opposite side) and hand your receipt to the cast member. You’ll then be given your selections. Keep in mind that some marketplaces share an order queue, but have separate pick-up queues.

PRO TIP: If you already know what you want to try at each marketplace, save yourself a lot of time in the order queues by ordering all of your selections at one marketplace. You can do this whether you’re using your pass or not. From there, you’ll only need to go through the pick-up queues at the individual marketplaces that offer the selections you’ve ordered.

Just be sure to keep your receipt because that’ll be the only proof you’ll have that you’ve paid for them. Cast members at each booth will mark items off on your receipt as you go. If you want to pick them up on another day, you can do that. Again, save your receipt.

6) Your Sip and Savor Pass can be used beyond the Marketplaces

There are a total of ten festival themed marketplaces scattered throughout the park, and your pass can be used at any of them. They are:

• “California Craft Brews” and “Cluck-a-Doodle-moo” in Paradise Gardens

• “Peppers Cali-Ente” in Grizzly Peak

• “Earth Eats” and “LA Style” in the Hollywood Backlot

• “Golden Dreams”, “Nuts About Cheese”, “Uncork California”, “D-Lish” and “Garlic Kissed” in The Performance Corridor

While many of the offerings served at the marketplaces are great, many don’t realize that there are many restaurants in DCA that are also taking part in the festival by offering their own special treats. A few of these include Award Weiners, Clarabelle’s, Willie’s Churros, Pym Test Kitchen and Lamplight Lounge (and more).

Furthermore, you can use your Sip and Savor Pass at these locations in the same way you would use them at the marketplaces. The only difference is you can’t order all of them in one place and just show your receipt. You’ll need to go to each restaurant individually.

It should be noted that when using your Sip and Savor Pass at these locations, you’ll be given a tasting-sized portion of the offering, not the full entree people paying separately would receive. We ordered at Willie’s Churros and Clarabelle’s and honestly, the portions we were given were more than sufficient, so fret not.

7) Allotments can NOT be used for alcohol

There are a number of marketplaces offering a variety of alcoholic beverages, including favorites such as beer, crafted cocktails, wine and mimosa flights. Unfortunately, you cannot use your Sip and Savor allotments for any of them. You can, however, use them for any non-alcoholic drinks.

I understand why Disney does this, as the $17 and up cocktails provide Disney with huge profit margins, but it would be nice if Disney sold an add-on to the Sip and Savor Pass that would be good for adult beverages. Then again, some could see three or four alcohol allotments as a challenge and for those who can’t handle their liquor, it could spell disaster for other guests. So perhaps it’s best to leave well enough alone.

8) Make sure you’re getting your money’s worth

The Sip and Savor Pass isn’t worth getting if you’re not using it correctly, as you can actually lose money with it. Assuming you’re not a Magic Key holder and you’re purchasing the eight allotment pass, that makes each allotment worth $7.62 ($61 divided by eight = $7.625). With a Magic Key discount, each allotment is worth $7 ($56 divided by eight = $7).

Meaning, in order to get the most value for your money, you’ll need to ensure that each item you order is at or above those dollar amounts. That presents a potential problem for non-key holders, as many of the desserts and non-alcoholic drinks are priced under that amount. Magic Key holders, though, will largely break even on those.

Thankfully, most food options (aside from desserts) are priced between $8 and $9. If you focus your allotments on those, you’ll maximize the value of your pass. Magic Key holders see the biggest savings, as they’ll save between $1 - $2 on each food offering.

Conversely, it gets even worse for those with the four allotment pass as, since there are no discounts, each allotment is worth $7.75, making the majority of desserts and drinks a loss (the sole exception being the Mickey Macaron, as it’s priced at $7.75) . If your intent is to purchase the four allotment pass, definitely use it only on food options priced between $8 - $9.

My advice would be to pay out of pocket for the desserts and drinks, and save your Sip and Savor allotments for food offerings. If you’re a Magic Key holder, you have a bit more leeway as you can go down to $7, which puts the desserts into break even or slight savings territory. Not to be repetitive, but either way, to get the most value, aim for items priced at the high end.

Planning a trip to the Disneyland Resort? For information and tips on tickets, read 10 Best Disneyland Tips: Park Tickets. To learn about Advanced Dining Reservations and Mobile Order, read my 2024 Disney Dining Guide. If you haven’t decided on dates yet, stay away from dense crowds by reading Dates in 2024 to Avoid Visiting Disneyland. Finally, stay up-to-date with ride closures by reading my 2024 Disneyland Refurbishment Schedule.

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

Do feel that the Sip and Savor Pass is worth purchasing? Have you used Sip and Savor at past events? What do you think of the new scannable card over the physical tabs? Are you attending this year’s California Food and Wine Festival? Sound off in the comments below.

Disney Installs Test Models for New Entry Gate at Disney California Adventure (Photos Included)

Back in late January, this site reported Disney’s announcement of new entry gates, similar to the ones used at Disneyland Paris, being installed at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.

This new entry gate signifies Disney’s commitment to investing in the guest experience, making the entry process, which is currently somewhat painful to partake in, a more seamless experience.

There was no word as to an exact date of construction for these new gates, other than a statement from a company spokesperson proclaiming, “later this year (2024)”. Little did we know that they would begin the testing phase so quickly.

Sometime during the weekend of March 9, Disney installed two of the new entry gates at Disney California Adventure, Disneyland’s sister park. This bodes well with their prior statement that DCA would be the first to receive the upgrade.

The new gates are located on the far right side of the gate, if you’re facing the park directly. In the photo above, you can see a tablet-like device, with a camera in the shape of a hidden Mickey at the top. This is where guests will take their pictures when using their ticket or Magic Key for the first time.

Below that is the scanner where you’ll scan your digital ticket or MagicBand+ to gain entry. When the system verifies that the ticket is valid, the transparent gates in the background will automatically open, allowing the guest to enter.

This will be quite the change for Disneyland fans, as for years there have been cast members stationed at each entry point scanning tickets and taking pictures, along with having to navigate the old-school turnstiles.

Interestingly, the new gates will not have a cast member at each entry point. Instead, there will be just a handful stationed at the gates to assist guests with issues with their tickets or with the gate itself.

It should be noted that the gates you see in the photos in this post are test models of the actual thing and may not be the final design. It’s unclear how long these gates will be in the testing phase for, but when they’re done, the models will be removed and construction will begin.

Construction is still set to begin this year and will occur in phases to minimize guest impact. As of the publishing of this post, Disney California Adventure is still expected to receive the new gates first. The project is expected to be completed in early 2025.

While many are excited about this project, just as many are disappointed that Disneyland isn’t getting the gate-less entry that Walt Disney World has, but I believe I know the reason why.

Walt Disney World is its own city, with many of the parks being isolated from the city streets. This makes having a gate-less entry a fairly low-risk endeavor, with slim chances of trespassers walking into the park in the middle of the night.

At Disneyland, the resort is literally surrounded by city streets. Disneyland has cages that enclose their current entry when the parks are closed to prevent trespassers from getting in. If they indeed installed gate-less entry, all anyone would need to do is walk right in.

They would certainly be more convenient, for sure. No argument from me about that. However, they’re just not practical or realistic for Disneyland. Guests at Disneyland Paris love these gates, so I’m excited for the possibilities they’ll bring to the guest experience.

Pixar Fest 2024 at Disneyland: 10 Things to Know

Beginning April 26 and continuing throughout the summer months, the Disneyland Resort will be hosting Pixar Fest, a fan-favorite event that’s returning to the resort for the first time since 2018.

The event celebrates all things Pixar, as beloved stories and characters from the endeared Pixar Animation Studios come to life in a way that only Disney can offer.

Throughout the event, many all new features will be offered, in addition to returning favorites with new enhancements. If you’re a fan of Pixar and you’ve been thinking of booking a trip to Disney, here’s your sign.

So what is Disney planning to offer guests during Pixar Fest? Below, I’ll discuss and present ten special offerings you can expect to experience.

Here’s a few things to keep in mind about Pixar Fest 2024:

• The event runs daily from April 26 - August 4, 2024

• Unlike After Dark Events, Pixar Fest does NOT require a separate ticket

• The event primarily takes place in DCA, but Disneyland Park, Downtown Disney and Pixar Place Hotel will also be partaking

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1) Pixar Themed Food & Marketplaces

While Disney has yet to share specific details about food and drinks (aside from a returning favorite we’ll discuss below), rest assured there will be no shortage of Pixar themed treats, dishes, cold brews and cocktails.

The returning favorite I mentioned above is the Pixar Cake pictured above, which will be available to order at Plaza Inn in the hub adjacent to the main entrance of Tomorrowland.

In 2024, the Troubadour Tavern’s menu will get a makeover, offering many Pixar-inspired foods and beverages. Additionally, Paradise Garden Grill at DCA will again offer Coco-inspired dishes.

Beginning May 10, a marketplace with several food booths (similar to the one’s used during Food and Wine) will be set-up near the Hollywood Backlot in DCA and will offer foods inspired by several characters from movies such as Luca, Ratatouille, Soul and Inside Out.

It’s a bit of a head scratcher as to why Disney decided to hold off on this until mid-May, instead of making it available in time for the advertised April start date. Though, with Food and Wine ending on April 22 and Pixar Fest beginning four days later, it could just be a timing, as Disney will need those extra couple weeks to convert the booths to their new Pixar themes.

2) Pixar Pals Playtime Party at Fantasyland Theatre

Based on the description on the Disney Parks Blog, this appears to be a family-friendly dance party with a variety of Pixar characters appearing on the stage and photo opportunities scattered throughout the viewing area, though it’s hard to tell if the characters on stage will be cut-outs or not.

They do specify it as taking place, “throughout the day”. While that doesn’t necessarily guarantee it won’t take place during night hours, the fact that it’s mainly geared towards children does suggest it.

The concept art also suggests that it’ll be more of an interactive experience, rather than a stage show. The stands are empty and all of the action is taking place in the space between the stage and stands, which at Disneyland is typically a no-go area during performances.

It’s a shame Disney isn’t pulling the trigger on a stage show, as I feel one would’ve rounded out the offerings quite nicely and Disneyland is sorely in need of more live performances, but I digress. It should be great for the kids (or the young at heart) or at minimum, a great way to get out of the sun for a bit.

3) Photo Opportunities with Pixar Characters

No special event would be complete without special and/or rare character appearances, and Pixar Fest is no exception. You’ll likely encounter all the usuals, with characters from The Incredibles, Inside Out and Toy Story making their standard appearances throughout Pixar Pier. Some of Pixar’s furrier characters, such as Dug from Up, will likely appear in the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail area.

In Disneyland Park, you can expect Buzz Lightyear to appear in Tomorrowland and Miguel from Coco in his usual spot in Frontierland, near the Big Thunder Mountain attraction. We’ll be attending Pixar Fest in early May, so I’ll loop back to provide more character location details at that point.

We can also presume that Bing Bong (Inside Out) and Joe Gardner (Soul) will continue to make their seemingly random appearances in the lobby of Pixar Place Hotel (for how long is the question). Additionally, Ember and Wade (Elemental) will make their debuts in the park, no word on where yet, though.

4) Pizza Planet Truck Popcorn Bucket

Themed popcorn buckets have become quite the sensation at the resort in the last few years, with each new release being more sought after than the last. It isn’t unheard of to see massive queues snaking around Town Square and other areas of the park during the first few days of each new release.

For Pixar Fest, Disney will present a popcorn bucket molded into the shape of the Pizza Planet truck from the Toy Story franchise (or every Pixar movie ever created if you’ve been paying attention). There isn’t a doubt in my mind that it’ll be in high demand.

If you’re going to want to purchase this, I would make it a point to arrive early and make it your first stop of the day, especially if it’s within the first week of release. Unfortunately, resellers converge onto the parks during new releases so they can buy as many as they can and then sell on Ebay (and other sites) for grossly inflated prices. They’re usually the cause for the huge queues and quick sell-outs.

5) Pixar Decor Throughout the Resort

The Disneyland Resort is no stranger to decorating its parks to “plus” them during a special event or occasion. During Pixar Fest, there will be no shortage of brightly-colored displays and photo-worthy sculptures.

Between the parks in the esplanade, there will be a 25-foot tall sculpture of the iconic Pixar Ball. Additionally, there will be Pixar-themed installation in DCA that your MagicBand+ will be able to interact with. These were the only two mentioned in the press release, but there will likely be many more.

6) The New, “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration” Parade at DCA

Disney California Adventure will host the centerpiece of Pixar Fest, “Better Together”, a new parade dedicated to the celebration of all things Pixar. It’ll be stacked with vibrant and colorful floats, and more than two dozen Pixar characters.

A few examples include:

• Red Panda Mei and her friends dancing to their favorite boy band; 4*Town

• Joe Gardner and 22 from Soul

• Luca, Alberto and Giulia from “Luca” spending time on the water’s edge in Portorosso

Additionally, the grand finale will include appearances from multiple legacy Pixar characters together, such as Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, Mike, Sulley, Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear.

This a great news as it’s been many years since we’ve seen a proper day parade at DCA and since their parade route is longer and, historically speaking, draws lighter crowds, an ideal spot to watch the parade from generally isn’t hard to come by.

I’m not claiming you’ll be able to show up with minutes to spare and snag a great spot (though it isn’t unheard of), but you definitely won’t have to camp out hours ahead of time like you do for Magic Happens at Disneyland.

As far as vantage points go, I recommend a spot at the beginning or end. Where the parade begins will depend on if they’re running one or two parades daily but historically, parades at DCA begin near Paradise Garden Grill and end in Hollywood Land, adjacent to Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission Breakout. If there are two showings, the second showing will begin where the first showing ended.

If you choose a spot at the end of the route, keep in mind that the parade route at DCA is long and takes the performers roughly 20 minutes or so to get from one end to the other. It’s advantageous to be at the end, though, because by the time the parade route passes you, the crowds at the beginning and middle of the route would have largely dissipated.

If you’re looking to photograph the parade, I highly suggest the vantage point in the concept art above, or any spot in that space where you can place Pixar Pal Around and Incredicoaster as the backdrop. The downside to this area, is people tend to camp out here more-so than others, so you’ll need to arrive early to attain an ideal spot.

7) Club Pixar at the Hollywood Backlot

During the day-time hours, the Hollywood Backlot will feature multiple Pixar-themed backdrops for photo opportunities, games and even character encounters. At night, however, the area transforms into Club Pixar.

This is sure to be the counter to the family-friendly Playtime Party at Disneyland Park, with features such as a DJ dance party, live performances, themed food and specially crafted beverages (cocktails), this is an obvious attractant to teenagers and “Disney Adults”.

To those who remember, this is an obvious call-back to the past when the Hollywood Backlot hosted other nighttime dance parties like elecTRONica and Mad T Party, which celebrated the films Tron and the live-action Alice in Wonderland, respectively. Despite being hugely popular events, Disney hasn’t held one of these in the last decade, so it’ll surely be a welcomed addition.

8) Special Pixar Merch Throughout the Resort

Popcorn buckets aren’t the only pieces of merchandise that’ll drop for Pixar Fest. In fact, TONS of special and limited edition Pixar-themed and inspired merchandise will make their way into the gift shops in time for the event.

There hasn’t been much of any details released, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see the usual suspects appear on shelves, such as Mickey ears and caps, spirit jerseys, LoungeFly bags, pins and more.

Additionally, you’ll also find plenty of collectable medallions themed to your favorite Pixar characters (for a limited time). A few examples of these characters include those from “Toy Story”, “A Bug’s Life”, “Elemental” and more.

9) Downtown Disney District

The festivities don’t end at the parks and resort hotels, Downtown Disney is also getting in on the action with vibrant decorations, photo opportunities, special merchandise collections and of course, Pixar-inspired menu items at select restaurants.

10) ‘Together Forever - A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular’ at Disneyland

‘Together Forever’ is a returning favorite from prior Pixar Fest events. It features fireworks (on weekends), colorful lasers, music and projections from the original productions and new additions, such as moments from “Luca”, “Onward”, “Elemental” and more.

As is the case with most firework/projection shows, there will be multiple viewing locations to choose from. The three most poplar include in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle, between the Main Street U.S.A shops and in front of the “it’s a small world” facade (all of which will feature projections). Additionally, your MagicBand+ will react with lights and vibrations.

If you decide to go with the classic front-and-center view, note that it’s a risky choice, in that Disneyland’s fireworks are often canceled (though you’ll still get the projection portion of the show) and you’ll need to camp out at least an hour prior. However, the upsides are obvious, in that you’ll have a largely unobstructed view of the projections on the castle and the fly-overs that take place (likely to be the house from Up or Buzz Lightyear this year).

Further back between the buildings of Main Street is another popular option. Here, you can generally snag a great spot without having to camp out and you’ll be surrounded by the projections on the walls of the shops. You’ll still have a decent view of the castle, though it’ll be distant and you’ll likely have to contend with those who’re taller or have kids on their shoulders blocking your view.

You’ll often see recommendations for the area around the “it’s a small world” facade and the Rivers of America, but they’re typically a no-go for me. They’re definitely fairly stress-free spots, as there are rarely large crowds in these areas, but both pail in comparison to the castle and Main Street, in my humbled opinion.

10 Best Disneyland Tips: Food and Drinks

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This post began with the intent of being a list of tips and tricks for multiple aspects of a Disneyland vacation. One I started outlining it, though, it quickly became apparent that it would be a massively long post that absolutely nobody would want to read through.

So instead, I decided to break up the would-be gigantic post into a series, giving each topic its own space and making it easier for you, the reader, to get the information you’re after.

This particular post will focus on food, drinks and the many restaurants of Disneyland. I will offer ten of the best tips and tricks that I feel would be most beneficial to you. Some will help to save you money, others may help you avoid losing money, but all with prove valuable.

So read on to discover ten tips for food, drinks and dining at the Disneyland Resort. If you haven’t yet purchased your park tickets, be sure to read the first post in this series as it offers ten tips for purchasing Disneyland tickets.

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1) To save money, split entrees at many Disney restaurants

It’s no secret, dining at the resort restaurants is expensive, especially for a family with multiple children. One way you can save money is to split entrees.

As expensive as they are, there are entrees at many Disney restaurants that could easily be split between two kids, or even two adults in some cases.

A few examples include:

• The Monte Cristo Sandwich at Cafe Orleans ($24)

• The House Gumbo at Tiana’s Palace ($17)

• The Fried Chicken plate at Plaza Inn ($20)

• The lobster nachos at Lamplight Lounge ($25)

• The Fried Chicken and Doughnuts at Great Maple ($25)

To my knowledge, Disney does not charge a fee to split plates (with the one exception being Napa Rose). So as you can see, it could add up to significant savings.

2) Know where you can order an adult beverage

Until fairly recently, the only way you could order alcohol at Disneyland was if you held a membership at Club 33. That changed in 2019 with the opening of Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Shortly thereafter, the Blue Bayou restaurant began serving select cocktails and wine. Finally, in 2022, three additional Disneyland restaurants saw alcoholic drinks added to their menus; River Belle Terrace, Carnation Cafe and Cafe Orleans.

At Disney California Adventure, you never had to look too hard to find alcohol, as just about every restaurant, both sit-sown and quick serve, offers it in some form.

The difference between the two parks, though, is your ability to take your drink with you. You’re permitted to walk around the park with a beer in your hand at DCA but in Disneyland, you must finish your drink before leaving the restaurant.

Additionally, at Disneyland, you cannot order drinks exclusively. You MUST order a food item with it. The only exception to that rule is at Oga’s Cantina, as it’s more of a bar with only a couple food options.

3) Take advantage of the picnic area in the Esplanade

One of the main questions people have about visiting Disneyland is, are they allowed to bring food into the parks? The answer is yes, for the most part. You cannot bring glass containers or coolers in, but wrapped sandwiches and the like in your backpack is perfectly fine.

To the left of the entry gates to Disneyland Park, behind tall shrubbery, is a semi-private picnic area. It’s free to anyone to use. So if you are bringing your own food, this a great spot to take a break from the parks and enjoy your lunch.

4) Don’t forget to make reservations - 60 days out, if possible

There are many quick service restaurants in the parks where you won’t have to worry about this, but if you’re set on dining at a table service restaurant, you’ll likely need to secure a reservation or you’ll be out of luck.

Disney allows you to make advanced dining reservations up to 60-days out at their most popular restaurants. A few of these get snagged up quickly, even at the 60-day mark. So it’s important to be logged into your Disney account and be ready to go.

A few examples of the hard-to-get reservations include:

• Lamplight Lounge

• Blue Bayou

• Oga’s Cantina

• Napa Rose

• Carthay Circle

• Trader Sam’s Tiki Bar

How hard they will be to get largely depends on the time of year you’ll be visiting. If you’re visiting between January and early March, it’ll be easier. In the summer or holiday months, though, the demand is higher and much more competitive.

You could always try the easier-to-get restaurants, where last minute ADR’s are typically easy to come by. These include Wine Country Trattoria, Jazz Kitchen and River Belle Terrace, all of which are solid options.

However, if you’re dead set on a particular restaurant and you haven’t been able to snag a ADR, there is one more thing you can try, which leads me to number 5…

5) Utilize ‘Mobile Walk-Up’

Mobile Walk-Up is a feature in the Disneyland App that enables you to join a virtual wait list at select Disney restaurants that don’t have available reservations.

Virtually every Disney restaurant that accepts ADRs offers this option. Keep in mind that at Lamplight Lounge, this is only an option at the Boardwalk Dining area of the restaurant between the hours of 11:30am and 4:00pm.

What you’ll do is head to the restaurant you want to dine at. As you’re approaching it, open the Disneyland app and go to the ‘Dining Availability’ tab.

Go to the restaurant’s page on the app and select, “Join Waitlist”. If you’re not close enough to the restaurant, it won’t let you join until you are.

Once you’ve joined the list, you’ll be notified through the app when a table becomes available. Try not to the stray too far from the restaurant as you only have a short time to claim your table.

6) Don’t purchase overpriced bottles of water

Bottles of water at the parks are often priced at $5 or more for a single bottle of Dasani. That same bottle at the grocery store would cost you $1.50 or less.

It simply doesn’t make economic sense to purchase these. If you’re looking for ways to save money during your trip, definitely start here.

Bringing your own reusable water bottle, such as a Hydro Flask, will save you tons of money as there are water bottle refill stations throughout both parks.

Additionally, you can get free water at any quick service eatery by simply asking a cast member. The cups are small, but you don’t have to pay for them and you can go back as many times as you like, even if you’re not purchasing anything.

7) Don’t skip the resort hotel restaurants

With so many options at both parks and Downtown Disney, many don’t realize that the resort hotels offer their own dining options, with many of them being popular amongst locals.

Trader Sam’s Tiki Bar at the Disneyland Hotel and Villas if one of the most popular options for drinks. Though in my humble opinion, the food isn’t worth it.

My personal favorites include the GCH Craftsman Grill and Hearthstone Lounge, both at the Grand Californian. The former is fairly easy to get an ADR but if their aren’t any available, you could always sit at the bar. The latter doesn’t offer reservations but almost always has an open table or barstool.

8) Definitely use ‘Mobile Order’ to save time

Mobile Order has been a game changer for park-goers. It enables you to order/pay for your food and select your pick up time in advance. When your time comes, simply head to the restaurant’s pick up window to retrieve your order.

Virtually every quick service restaurant in the parks offer this feature, including Cocina Cucamonga, Lucky Fortune Cookery, Tiana’s Palace, Bengal BBQ and Pym’s Test Kitchen.

Remember that you’ll need the Disneyland app, plus a Disney account and stored payment method in order to use the Mobile Order feature. You can read more details about it in my 2024 Disneyland Dining Guide.

9) Plan out what you want to eat prior to going to allow for better budgeting

The Disneyland website is a gold mine of information, especially when it comes to its dining options. You’re able to see restaurant names, precise locations, menu offerings, nutrition information, prices, and more.

After deciding where you want to eat but prior to leaving for your trip, go to the website and research the menus at the restaurant you’re wanting to dine at.

I’m not saying you need to decide exactly what you want to eat, but going through the menus will give you a general idea of what it’ll cost to dine there and allow you to budget better.

10) Purchase ‘Sip and Savor’ passes during festivals

There are three food festivals throughout the year, all of which take place at Disney California Adventure. They are Lunar New Year Celebration, the Food & Wine Festival and the Festival of Holidays.

One of the main draws of the these festivals are the dozen or so individually themed marketplaces, each offering their own food options in individual sized portions.

The Sip and Savor passes come with digital allotments of four or eight. You can use your allotments for any entree or non-alcoholic drink option at the booths and select restaurants.

Remember, the higher priced the food or drink option you want is, the greater the savings. For example, the price for the eight allotment Sip and Savor pass during the 2024 Food and Wine Festival costs $61 (or $56 for Magic Key holders). That makes each allotment $7.62 each (or $7 each for the Magic Key price).

With most food options priced between $8 and $10, the savings are obvious. Due to this, it doesn’t make sense to use an allotment for a drink, which are usually priced at or under the $7 mark. It’s cost effective to use them for the higher priced items.

BREAKING: Disneyland Magic Keys Going On Sale Again

On the morning of March 4, 2024, Disney made the surprising announcement that Magic Keys, Disneyland’s post-covid annual pass, would go on sale once again on March 5, no earlier than 9am.

It’s surprising because Magic Keys just went on sale a couple months ago on January 10. In prior years, there were much longer gaps between sales and at least a week’s notice. This time, Disney is giving less than a 24 hour heads up.

Additionally, Disney announced a few new features to the buying process that’ll hopefully improve the customer experience. That’s good because the last few sales were disasters. Especially the one on January 10.

Due to many online glitches, potential Magic Key buyers who were stuck in an hours-long virtual queue were never given the opportunity to complete their purchases. I know because I was nearly one of them.

I waited in the virtual queue, literally staring at the screen so it wouldn’t go black, for nearly six hours before I was finally let into the checkout area. Then, due to a glitch in the checkout process, I nearly missed my chance. Thankfully, the Disney Gods were kind as I was able to get back in to buy my Magic Key.

Many, however, were not that lucky. They would wait for many hours longer than I did, all to be told later that evening that sales would be paused until the next morning. Then, shortly after sales resumed on January 11, all Magic Keys would sell out. Leaving many people out in the cold.

For the sale event on March 4, there will be a few welcomed changes that’ll make the virtual queue and buying process a little less anxiety inducing. They are:

• The “Notify Me” option that was introduced during the Star Wars Nite virtual queue. This will be the first time that this option will be available for Magic Key sales. Simply provide an email address and Disney will notify you when it’s your turn to enter the checkout area.

• The waiting room will notify potential buyers of their chances of being able to buy a key by updating them on Magic Key availability. Essentially, if you’re aiming to buy a Believe Key, but they sell out while you’re in the virtual queue, you’ll be notified so you’re not waiting around for nothing. This feature was somewhat in effect during the January 10 sale, but it wasn’t updated all that often. Hopefully it’ll work better this time around.

• The checkout process will better remind customers that they need to be logged into their Disney account in order to see payment options for Magic Keys..

What You’ll Need to Do

I cannot stress this enough. You need to be logged into your Disney account PRIOR to when sales begin. Disney states “no earlier than 9am”, but few know that you can actually enter into a virtual waiting room of sorts starting at 8:45am.

Disney doesn’t advertise it, but it exists. Be sure to take advantage of that extra 15 minutes because it could literally mean the difference between buying a Magic Key and going without.

Furthermore, don’t try to enter the virtual queue directly from within the Disneyland website. I know that sounds counterintuitive, but going that route nearly cost me my chance.

Instead, go to Google and search, “Disneyland Magic Key Sale”, right at 8:45am. Click or tap on the first non-sponsored link from Disney you see, and that’ll take you straight into the virtual queue.

Once you’re in, you have no choice but to be patient. You could get into the purchasing area in less than an hour, or you could end up waiting all day. Getting into the virtual queue early increases your chance of a short wait, but it’s far from a guarantee.

To see current pricing, benefits and tiers of Disneyland’s Magic Key program, go here. Good luck to you.

A Guide to Visiting Disneyland in August 2024

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

August is an interesting month to visit the Disneyland Resort. Crowd patterns are difficult to nail down, refurbishments are up in the air and of course, the wildcard for August 2024, Halloween season kicks off for the first time ever!

On the other end of the spectrum, the weather, while warm (it is August, after all) is still fairly comfortable, single day ticket prices start to come down in price, and for Imagine and Enchant Key holders, the summer blockout period begins to lift.

So is August a good month to visit Disneyland? How crowded will the parks be? Which attractions will be closed for refurbishment? I discuss all of these topics and more in this post. Let’s get into it!

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Check out these products I recommend for a trip to Disneyland in August…

• Element Equipment 50L Travel Duffel w/ Shoulder Straps

• Moleskin Blister Protection

• Owala Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

• Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray

• Mickey and Minnie Mouse Ears (way more affordable than the ones at the park)

Anaheim Weather in August

As stated above, the weather in Anaheim in August gets on the warmer side, but it maintains a more comfortable level of warmth due to the low humidity. In fact, August is one of the months with the lowest humidity, with the chances of mugginess being 10% or less each day.

The average highs and lows are 86 and 66 degrees. Some days get into the low 90’s but rarely, if ever, exceed 94 degrees. A common rebuttal from locals to visitors complaining about the heat is, “it’s more of a dry heat, though”. Honestly, it’s hard to argue that logic once you’ve been there.

If you’re not a fan of rainy days then you’ll definitely love August as it’s one of the driest months in Anaheim. The chance for rain throughout the entire month remains at 2% with a comparatively low chance of thunder and lightening, leading to regular periods of clear, blue skies.

August also brings about longer than usual periods of daylight, though the amount you get decreases as the month progresses. The average for the month is 13.4 hours of daylight but by the time the end of the month arrives, that amount would have decreased by 55 minutes.

All that said, days are consistently warm but nights benefit from that cool coastal air and rarely exceeds 70 degrees. Despite it being summer, it would be wise to pack a light hoodie or sweater with your warm weather clothing (check out this great 50L travel duffel bag).

Is Disneyland Crowded in August?

In terms of crowds, August is chaotic. Crowd patters jump from one extreme to another throughout the month, making it difficult to pin down.

The crowds in the first half of the month will likely be as dense as they were in July, but that will start tapering off as we progress into the middle of the month as Orange County and Los Angeles school summer breaks come to a close.

However, the offset will be minimal as at around the same time, the blockout periods for the Imagine and Enchant Keys will begin to lift. This is when what I call the late afternoon “Locals Swell” returns.

Meaning, the first half of the day will likely receive the usual amount of crowds but as locals start getting out of school and work for the day, they converge onto the parks in the late afternoon or early evening, causing a swell in crowd levels.

To make matters worse, these key holders, I believe, make up the majority of local Magic Key holders, and they’ve been completely blocked out of the park since mid June. That’s a lot of pent-up demand, so be sure to compare your dates to those of the Magic Key calendar.

Another wildcard for this month is the fact that the Halloween season officially kicks off in the second half of August for the first time ever. This will definitely bring in the locals, as they’re the main demographic Disney targets for the special food and merchandise offerings.

As we’ll discuss in more detail below, the weekdays in the second half of the month are priced at their lowest - $104. Disney prices low demand days at these price points to entice more people to visit, and that’s exactly what I think will happen.

Many bargain hunters likely committed to a self-imposed lockout of the parks throughout the summer due to high prices but now that they’re coming down again, those same bargain hunters could hit the parks on those lower demand days en masse.

Finally, another aspect to consider is the Oogie Boogie effect. By that, I mean Oogie Boogie Bash, Disney California Adventure’s nighttime Halloween party.

With Halloween starting in August, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Oogie Boogie nights added to the August calendar. Since DCA closes early to regular park guests on those nights, this often causes a swarm of people to migrate over to Disneyland Park.

So in addition to locals causing a swell in the evenings, you’ll also have guests park hopping from DCA to contend with.

All that said, I would still recommend booking the weekday dates of 8/19 - 8/22 or 8/26 - 8/29 as your best chance of lower crowds. Magic Key holders may (somewhat) have free rein again, but locals are back in school and the peak tourist season has come to a close.

Single Day Ticket Prices + Magic Key Blockouts

For those who’re unaware, Disney prices their single day tickets on a dynamic pricing structure. Meaning, the price you’ll pay for a specific day is driven by predicated demand based off of Disney’s historic data.

For example, generally, weekend dates are always going to be priced higher than weekday dates as they tend to be busier. This allows Disney to maximize profits on busy days, while padding the parks with more guests on slower days by pricing them lower.

In August, the price range for adult single day, one park tickets is $104 - $194. All days priced at $104 are weekdays in the second half of the month, they are 8/19 - 8/22 and 8/26 - 8/29.

There are only two days priced at the $194 mark, they are 8/3 and 8/10. Both of these are Saturdays. All Fridays and Sundays in the month vary between $169 and $184, with weekdays in the first half of August varying between $134 - $169.

The child single day, one park ticket is priced between $98 - $183 and follows the same general high and low pattern as the adult prices above.

Keep in mind that while the $104 price may sound enticing (and it is), but that low price doesn’t always equate to a slower day, crowd wise. Disney prices these days lower to entice more people to visit. If a large group of bargain hunters buy tickets for one of those days, it’ll be a busier than normal day.

To avoid that, it’s sometimes worth it to go on a day where the price is closer to the middle range. High demand days are typically always busy while lower demand days could see an influx from the lower price. It’s possible to get around that by going on a day where crowds will be closer to neutral.

If you’re a Magic Key holder, or you’re hoping to be one by August, you’ll need to be mindful of the blockout calendar. In August, the blockout periods for Imagine and Enchant Keys that have been in effect since mid-June begin to lift.

Inspire Key holders, of course, need not be concerned about blockouts as you have none in August. Believe Key holders, the only day in the month you can’t visit the parks is 8/3 (a Saturday).

Enchant Key holders will get first crack at the parks since your summer blockout period lifts on 8/5. You will still be blocked 8/1 - 8/4 and then again on 8/10, 8/17, 8/24 and 8/31, all of which are Saturdays.

Imagine Key holders, you’ll be blocked for the first eleven days of the month. Your first eligible day to enter the parks will be 8/12. After that, you’re blocked on 8/16 - 8/18, 8/24 - 8/25 and 8/31. All of these are weekends and/or Fridays.

Hotel Rates for August

Which hotel you’re going to stay at for your Disneyland vacation is a big decision. There are many hotels surrounding the parks, including three Disney owned properties, all of which vary in quality, rates and amenities.

The three Disney owned hotels - The Grand Californian, The Disneyland Hotel & Villas and Pixar Place, are undoubtedly going to be most expensive hotel options.

Outside of that, there are dozens of what are called Good Neighbor hotels that surround the resort, namely on South Harbor blvd and Katella ave. South Harbor runs parallel to the resort on its east side (the main entrance), while Katella runs south along the backside of DCA.

The following rates are average nightly rates in August for these hotels. Remember, these are averages and they’ll vary based on too many variables to keep proper track of. These are just examples of what you can expect to pay in August:

• The Grand Californian Hotel and Spa, Disney’s most expensive property in California, has an average nightly rate of $779.45 for a standard view and $1,368 for club level of the same view.

• The Disneyland Hotel & Villas, the original Disney hotel, fares a little bit better with an average rate of $576.52 for a studio in the Villas Tower, $589.09 for a standard view room and $896.28 for a club level room of the same view.

• Disney’s newest addition to the line up, Pixar Place, is the most budget friendly of the three with an average rate of $457.66 for a standard view and $705.14 for club level.

The Good Neighbor hotels are a bit harder to track, as there are many of them and I have to rely on third party websites to obtain an acceptable average.

If you’re looking for the most budget friendly options and you’re not all that concerned with amenities, there are four hotels within walking or shuttle distance that average under $125 per night, they are Motel 6 Maingate, Anaheim Astoria, Kings Inn Anaheim and Solara Inn and Suites.

If you’re wanting better amenities but you’re not looking to re-finance your house to do it, there are several properties under $250 a night that offer such, they are the Howard Johnson Hotel and Water Playground, Tropicana Hotel and Suites, Grand Legacy at the Park and The Anaheim Hotel. All of these are within close proximity of the resort’s east entrance.

That said, the majority of which that sit between the I-5 overpass and the Katella intersection run between $200 and $300 per night, with some reaching as high as $360. Of course, there are higher end hotels located nearby such as the Westin and Courtyard Marriott that often reach the $500 mark.

Halloween Season at Disneyland

For the first time ever, Halloween season at the Disneyland Resort officially begins on Friday, August 23. This is in direct response to the overwhelming popularity of the holidays at the park.

There hasn’t been any details released by Disney about what to expect this year, as those are typically announced in June. However, we have plenty of historical data to go off of that’ll give us a general idea.

For starters, Disney’s nighttime Halloween party, Oogie Boogie Bash, will certainly return in 2024. With the addition of August in the timeline, I expect expanded dates and potentially more offerings during the hard ticket event.

Halloween decor is also a given. In Disneyland Park, Main Street U.S.A and parts of Frontierland are generally the only two lands that receive decor. Additionally, we’ll also have the return of Haunted Masnion Holiday with a newly expanded queue and exit.

At DCA, the decor runs throughout much of the park, including and especially at Cars Land, which transforms into Radiator SCREAMS. If you’ve never seen Cars Land during Halloween time, it’s an attraction all its own and will have you exploring every nook and cranny of the land.

There are Halloween overlays at select attractions in DCA as well, including Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree and Mission Breakout. Additionally, there are sure to be dozens of special food, treat and drink offerings, along with limited edition merchandise.

I’ll be sure to update this post when more information becomes available. For now, be sure to give my 2024 Halloween at Disneyland guide.

Disneyland Attraction Refurbishments in August

The Haunted Mansion, which is currently closed while it undergoes an expansion of its grounds, queue area and exit, will likely be down for the first few weeks of August, but I expect it to reopen in time for the Halloween season kickoff on August 23.

Another closure that’ll be a sure thing is Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. While Walt Disney World’s version has received a summer 2024 opening, ours is taking longer due Disney closing it months later and workers running into issues. I don’t expect ours to open anytime before November.

Beyond that, nothing is certain as Disney doesn’t release refurbishment information sooner than 45 days out. A persistent closure that occurs often during the hot summer months is the Monorail, though.

Unfortunately, the Monorail wasn’t built with air conditioning in mind so when it gets too warm, usually around the mid-day mark, Disney temporarily closes the Monorail for guest safety. Once it cools back down, they’ll reopen it.

As August approaches and Disney releases more information, I will update this post. Be sure to read and save my 2024 Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar, as I relentlessly keep it up to date with ride closure and future project information.