On Friday, January 20, 2023, Lunar New Year will begin to be celebrated at Disney California Adventure. The celebration will include Mulan’s Lunar New Year Processional, festive foods, entertainment, merchandise, and more. This year will be a celebration of both the Year of the Rabbit and the Year of the Cat. The OC Register is reporting that for this celebration, Ortensia the Cat will be joining Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. They will be found in Paradise Gardens where they will be meeting with guests. They will both be wearing outfits that are inspired by Lunar New Year.
The Disney Parks Blog shared that the “Chinese zodiac calendar plays a significant role in shaping the traditions, holidays and foods enjoyed in Asian communities all over the globe. In Chinese culture, the rabbit has the unique characteristic of waiting for an opportune moment and then leaping into action. More than any other zodiac animal, the rabbit symbolizes luck.”
There will be plenty of ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure. Disney has announced the following offerings for the celebration:
- Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession – Mulan and Mushu lead this processional along the entire parade route this year as they honor family, friendship, and the potential for a fortune-filled new year.
- Hurry Home – Lunar New Year Celebration (ahead of World of Color) – nighttime water show that tells the tale of a little lantern’s quest to reunite with family for the annual celebration of good luck and fortune.
- Arts & Crafts
- Disney characters include Mulan, Mushy, Mickey Mouse, and Minnie Mouse in festive attire along with Ortensia and Oswald.
There will also be marketplaces found in Disney California Adventure that will give guests the opportunity to experience foods inspired by Lunar New Year. This includes:
- Bamboo Blessings
- Wrapped with Love
- Lucky 8 Lantern
- Prosperity Bao & Buns
- Red Spice Traders
- Longevity Noodle Co
A full look at the foods that will be offered can be found here. Are you excited about all of the different experiences and offerings that will be at Disney California Adventure as it celebrates the Lunar New Year? What do you think about the arrival of Ortensia the Cat with Oswald the Lucky Rabbit? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
