2019 is going to be a big year for Disneyland. While there's a little something regarding the largest expansion in the history of Disneyland Resort that is getting all the attention, there are also a lot of other things going on to try and draw fans down before the big summer unveiling, From new parades and fireworks to brand new attractions in both Disneyland Resort parks, there's plenty to keep you entertained no matter when you go in 2019.
Hopefully, those new ticket prices won't stand in your way. Even though they are being done to control the crowds in the park. It's a give and take. We understand. We just don't love it. Anyway, on with the show.
Get Your Ears On - A Mickey and Minnie Celebration
2018 was the 90th birthday of one of the most popular icons in the history of pop culture. Mickey Mouse might be 90, but the guy still parties like a kid, and he's having such a good time that he's not letting the fact that it's not 2018 anymore stop him from throwing a massive party. In fact, most of this year will be dedicated to both Mickey and Minnie at Disneyland.
The celebration, set to begin January 18, will include a brand new fireworks show, Mickey's Mix Magic, as well as the return of Mickey's Soundsational Parade on January 25. There will, of course, be special merchandise available to celebrate your favorite mouse.
Lunar New Year
Last year was the first year that Disneyland Resort celebrated Lunar New Year in the parks, and the event was clearly a success as it will be back again in 2019. Beginning on January 25 and running until February 17, you can celebrate the year of the Pig at Disney California Adventure
The festivities are set to include a regular processional led by fan-favorite Disney Princess Mulan, as well as culturally inspired Disney food, crafts for kids, and Disney characters available for photos in festive attire. Similarly to the way that DCA celebrates the Day of the Dead during the Halloween celebration, this is a great way to enjoy a culturally specific celebration with a bit of Disney style thrown in.
Disneyland After Dark
Disneyland After Dark events are always popular. The park is closed early, except for those who have purchased a ticket to the special event. This means smaller crowds and shorter lines, but it also means special events only for those lucky enough to attend.
Two such events have been announced thus far. Sweethearts Nite is set for February 7 and 90s Nite is scheduled for March 7. Both will include special food options, and an appropriately themed dance party. The 90s will also have a special fireworks display. There's a good chance more Disneyland After Dark Events will be announced throughout the year, so keep an eye open as tickets always go fast.
Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival
While the attractions are always the number one reason that people go to Disneyland, the number two reason has to be the food. Disney always has more delicious and unique creations than it is possible to try in just one visit. This problem will only be getting worse when the Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival returns beginning March 1.
The Food and Wine Festival will run until April 23, so you've got some time to check it out, but you might need all that time in order to have enough time to taste all the amazing food and drink that will be available. In addition to the food, there will be seminars to help turn you into a chef, as well as cooking experiences for the little ones.
Star Wars Galaxy's Edge
Did you think we were going to forget this one? After years of waiting, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is almost here. Officially, the new land is set to open at Disneyland sometime this summer but recent comments from Disney CEO Bob Iger seems to have narrowed down that window to the month of June. One thing we do know is that Disneyland is going to be swamped with visitors once it opens. But man, are they going to be in for a spectacular show, based on the early looks at the park.
The new land is promising all new levels of immersion as it attempts to create a brand new Star Wars planet, Batuu. The land will also include a pair of E-ticket attractions. Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run puts a crew of six in the cockpit of the iconic Corellian Freighter while Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance puts guests in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance. We wonder if Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge will continue to add attractions to its area as J.J. Abrams releases Star Wars: Episode IX, and subsequent Star Wars movies and shows are released? I guess we will see, in time.
Jessie's Critter Carousel
2018 saw Paradise Pier at Disney's California Adventure receive a complete facelift and a transformation into Pixar Pier. That transition will continue in 2019 with the opening of a brand new carousel themed around Toy Story's cowgirl Jessie.
The previous carousel was themed around The Little Mermaid 's King Tritton but it has been shuttered since the pier went down for refurbishment last year, leaving a gap between the Incredicoaster and Toy Story Midway Mania. While no opening date for the new carousel has been set, it has been confirmed by Disney to be opening in 2019, so it's only a matter of time before this one is back in action.
Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind
This one may need an asterisk by it when it comes to the 2019 schedule. While originally announced to open 2019 on Pixar Pier alongside Jessie's Critter Carousel, we haven't heard much about the Emotional Whirlwind in recent days. There's still no reason it shouldn't open this year, but that has yet to be confirmed.
The Emotional Whirlwind uses the same infrastructure as Flik's Flyers, the now defunct ride from the now-closed A Bug's Land area of Disney California Adventure. This is great, as the closure of A Bug's Land, to make way for the new Marvel-themed area, removed many attractions suitable for the youngest guests, so getting one of them back will be a welcome addition.
