Disney California Adventure Celebrates 25 Years With Special Entertainment, Food, and Limited-Time Experiences
By Rikki
Can you believe it’s been 25 years since Disney California Adventure first opened its gates? The park debuted on February 8, 2001, and in 2026, Disneyland Resort is throwing a massive celebration to honor a quarter-century of memories, thrills, and storytelling.
To mark this milestone, Disney California Adventure, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, and the Downtown Disney District will all take part in the festivities, offering limited-time entertainment, food, merchandise, and special nods to the park’s history. And as if that weren’t enough, the celebration overlaps with the ongoing Disneyland Resort 70th anniversary, making 2026 an especially exciting year to visit.
Let’s take a look at everything coming to the Disneyland Resort for this unforgettable celebration.
Disney California Adventure’s 25th Anniversary Celebration
Disney California Adventure opened on February 8, 2001. Since opening day, Disney California Adventure has evolved dramatically. From Cars Land and Buena Vista Street to Pixar Pier, Avengers Campus, and San Fransokyo Square, the park has evolved over the years, with more to come in the future, with a new Avatar section, a new Coco attraction, and new attractions for Avengers Campus.
Mickey and Minnie Debut New Anniversary Outfits
Beginning February 6, 2026, guests strolling down Buena Vista Street will spot Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse wearing all-new anniversary outfits. Their looks feature sun-inspired details and a bright, vibrant color palette, paying homage to the park’s original aesthetic from 2001.
Soarin’ Over California Returns For a Limited Time
One of the most beloved opening-day attractions is making a comeback. The fan-favorite Soarin’ Over California, which is one of the park’s opening day attractions, will return for a limited run beginning February 6 and continuing through July 1, 2026. That’s when Soarin’ Across America will debut on July 2, 2026.
Limited-Time Food and Treats
Available for a limited time, February 6-15, 2026, Schmoozies! will serve a decadent cake shake, a confetti shake with strawberry icing, sprinkles, whipped topping, and a slice of cake.
Pixar Pal-A-Round 25th Anniversary Popcorn Bucket
This 25th anniversary Popcorn Bucket is awesome! The bucket is modeled after the iconic Pixar Pal-A-Round and the popcorn bucket even reacts to select locations in both theme parks, changing color, and lighting patterns.
This first-of-its-kind bucket is available for purchase beginning February 6 at the following locations:
- Mobile order: Hollywood Lounge Seasonal Novelty Release (Feb. 6-8)
- Mobile order: Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta Seasonal Novelty Release (Feb. 6-8)
- Mobile order: Popcorn at Grizzly Peak Airfield
- Fairfax Market
- Mortimers Market
- Select popcorn and outdoor vending carts in California Adventure
I’m telling you now….this popcorn bucket will sell out quickly!
The Disney California Adventure 25th Anniversary Collection merchandise will be available beginning February 6 at Elias & Co., Gone Hollywood, and Seaside Souvenirs in Disney California Adventure.
Commemorative Map on February 8
If you’re visiting on the park’s official anniversary, February 8, 2026, guests entering Disney California Adventure with a valid ticket may receive a complimentary commemorative map—a special keepsake marking the milestone day.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa 25th Anniversary
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa also turns 25 this year. The hotel welcomed its first guests in January 2001 and officially celebrated its grand opening on February 8, 2001.
Humphrey the Bear Makes His Disney Parks Debut
To celebrate, a new character is making his first Disney Parks appearance at Storytellers Cafe! Beginning February 6, Humphrey the Bear will be among the characters you’ll encounter during Donald’s Tales of Adventure dinner buffet.
This mischievous, snack-loving grizzly bear of Brownstone National Park is featured in several Disney animated shorts.
Advanced reservations are highly recommended for Storytellers Cafe and can be booked up to 60 days in advance.
Downtown Disney District Joins the Celebration
When it opened on January 12, 2001, Downtown Disney District introduced new dining, shopping, and entertainment venues.
For a limited time, Guests can purchase merchandise featuring the district’s new logo at World of Disney. In addition, select restaurants will offer specialty menu items in celebration of the anniversary too.
A Big Year at the Disneyland Resort
With Disney California Adventure’s 25th anniversary and the Disneyland Resort 70th anniversary celebrations happening together, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in Disneyland history.
Whether you’re a longtime fan who remembers opening day or a first-time visitor ready to experience it all, this celebration promises nostalgia, innovation, and plenty of Disney magic.
Stay tuned to A Disney World After All for more updates as the anniversary festivities kick off!
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