We’re about halfway through refurbishment season, which means spring is just around the corner at the Disneyland Resort! I don’t think I’m alone in being sick and tired of this winter, and can’t wait for more sunshine. Disneyland is revving up for the warmer months too, with the Lunar New Year Festival underway and Food & Wine Festival soon to follow.

But for now, let’s take a look back at January across the happiest place on earth.

SWEETHEARTS NITE BRINGS OUT RARE DISNEY CHARACTERS

The first Disneyland After Dark celebration (more on this year’s lineup coming next week), Sweethearts Nite, kicked off the year’s ticketed parties. New this year: the Celebrate Love Cavalcade, a procession down Main Street that happens exclusively during Sweethearts Nite.

 Source: Undercover Tourist

Plus, you’ll see a lot of characters that don’t normally roam the park. Sure, the princesses will be out and about with their princess, but keep your eyes open for lesser-seen couples like Hercules and Megara, Phoebus and Esmeralda, and Mulan and Shang.

 Source: Coheteboy

Plus, making her parks debut during the parties is none other than Charlotte La Bouff from Princess and the Frog!

 Source: Daps Magic

Sweethearts Nite runs through February on select nights. For a last minute ticket, check out the event page here.

A SPECIAL CELEBRATION FOR CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE

On February 8, the Disneyland Resort celebrates a special anniversary: California Adventure (and Downtown Disney) turn 25. While the 70th celebration over in Disneyland has been getting the most attention this year, the resort did announce some festivities coming in the next few weeks to mark the occasion.

Resort Updates - January 2026 Source: Disney Parks Blog

The lineup includes:

  • Soarin’ Over California – returning to the park February 6 to July 1
  • Schmoozies – enjoy a cake shake from February 6 to 15
  • Elias & Co., Gone Hollywood, and Seaside Souvenirs – shop a collection of 25th anniversary apparel, including three collectible pins
  • Storytellers Cafe – meet Humphrey the Bear during character dining starting February 6
  • Acorn Gifts & Goods – a Grand Californian 25th anniversary pin available for purchase, while supplies last

Plus, if you visit California Adventure on February 8, you can collect a commemorative park map at the gates.

Resort Updates - January 2026 Source: Disney Parks Blog

OTHER UPDATES

After a length refurbishment, Napa Rose will finally reopen on February 6. The restaurant’s enhancements include expanded outdoor seating, a new seasonal prix-fixe menu, and a standalone chef’s counter experience.

And finally, Galaxy’s Edge will be officially expanding its timeline starting April 29. While previously, the land (mostly) stuck to the sequel trilogy era, in the springtime the timelines will mix. You’ll be able to meet original trilogy characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo…and Darth Vader himself.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *