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Home / Blog / When to Visit / Disneyland Summer Hoppenings: What's New, Returning and Extended in Summer 2026

Disneyland Summer Hoppenings: What's New, Returning and Extended in Summer 2026

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Summer is here at the Disneyland Resort, and there are plenty of exciting hoppenings to keep frogs of all ages busy through the season. Experience the end of the Disneyland 70th Celebration, dance parties, nighttime spectaculars, new ride experiences and more! From the theme parks to the hotels (and even the Downtown Disney District!), you'll find live music, special character appearances and interactive activities. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a weekend getaway or even a summer visit during early Halloween Time, Disneyland Resort is packed with limited-time entertainment and summertime fun. Here's a look at everything new, returning and extended for summer at Disneyland in 2026.

FAQs

  • What special events are happening at Disneyland in summer 2026? Catch Bluey's Best Day Ever!, new Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run missions, Stitch's Interplanetary Beach Party Blast and a new Disney Friends Dance Party, family activities, summer concerts and more.
  • Is the Disneyland 70th Celebration still happening in summer 2026? The 70th Celebration officially ends Aug. 9, 2026. However, Paint the Night and Wondrous Journeys will continue through Aug. 20, 2026.
  • When does Soarin' Across America debut at Disneyland? Soarin' Across America makes its way to Disney California Adventure July 2, 2026.
  • Are there any special summer Disneyland deals? You've come to the right spot! Undercover Tourist can help you save on tickets and hotel stays this summer, including an even bigger discount on the Kids Summer Ticket for as low as $48 per day!

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026-Disneyland castle

To help you plan your visit, we're breaking down all the hoppenings at Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney and the Disneyland Hotels. While some experiences are only available for a limited time, we've noted which offerings will stick around beyond the summer season. Plus, you'll find details on new rides, entertainment and experiences debuting this summer.

Disneyland Park Summer Happenings

There's so much to see and do at Disneyland Park this summer. From all-new ride adventures to dance parties and extended nighttime spectaculars, here's what you won't want to miss.

Bluey's Best Day Ever! (New Experience for Summer and Beyond)

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026 - Bluey's Best Day Ever!

One of the biggest additions of the summer is Bluey's Best Day Ever! at Fantasyland Theatre. Bluey and Bingo appear throughout the day alongside performers and musicians in an interactive experience inspired by the hit series, "Bluey." The theater has been transformed into a fun fair-themed play space where families can dance, play games and enjoy some shade during the warmer summer afternoons. It's also one of the best spots in the resort for younger kids.

Mandalorian and Grogu in Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run (New Ride Update)

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026 - Mandalorian and Grogu Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run

The new Mandalorian and Grogu storyline on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run debuted May 22, 2026. You're in store for all-new missions alongside Din Djarin and everyone's favorite Force-sensitive child. You can read all about the new update and what to know before riding in our complete guide to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.

The Curious Child Projection Show (Limited-Time)

Grogu projection show

After your flight, stick around Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for “The Curious Child,” a nighttime projection experience that follows Grogu as he recalls memories from his adventures with the Mandalorian.

New and Returning "Star Wars" Characters (New Characters, as of May 22, 2026)

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026 - Chewie and Han Solo in Galaxy's Edge

Han, Leia, Luke and Darth Vader have made their way to Batuu. Catch updated Stormtroopers, new character interactions, music from the "Star Wars" movies and more around Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Plus, the adorable BDX droids are back in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge for the summer. The playful droids can be spotted roaming Black Spire Outpost, showing off their personalities and occasionally getting themselves into a little trouble.

Youngling Saber Building Expo (Limited-Time, as of May 22, 2026)

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026 - Savi's Lightsaber Youngling experience

For a limited time, young Jedi can participate in the Youngling Saber Building Expo at Savi's Workshop. Designed for kids ages 3 to 9 (but any age can participate), this complimentary interactive experience lets younglings learn the basics of lightsaber building and join the Loth-Cat Crew. The lightsaber is not included, but you have the option to purchase it at the end of the experience.

Stitch's Interplanetary Beach Party Blast (Limited-Time, as of May 22, 2026)

Stitch dance party

Need to burn off some energy? Stitch’s Interplanetary Beach Party Blast has returned to Tomorrowland Terrace. Expect music, dancing and appearances from Stitch and friends during this high-energy summer dance party.

A Walk in Walt's Footsteps Guided Tour (Returns Aug. 14, 2026)

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026 - Guest looking out the window in Walt's apartment on a guided tour

Disneyland history fans won’t want to miss the return of the reimagined “A Walk in Walt’s Footsteps” guided tour. The updated experience begins in Disney California Adventure before taking guests on a journey through Disneyland history, culminating with rare access to Walt Disney’s apartment above the Fire Station on Main Street, U.S.A.

The tour includes:

  • A commemorative name tag, lanyard and collectible pin
  • A walking tour filled with lesser-known anecdotes and milestones that shaped Walt Disney's Dream
  • A visit to Walt’s legendary apartment
  • Iconic attractions
  • Refreshments (a snack box)
  • PhotoPass photos of your party with complimentary digital downloads (get that iconic photo of you and the lamp that always remains lit in honor of Walt’s spirit)

The tour costs $170 per person, with discounts for Disney Visa cardholders.

"Paint the Night" and "Wondrous Journeys" (Extended through Aug. 20, 2026)

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026 - Paint the Night Mac truck

The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration may officially wrap up Aug. 9, 2026, but two fan-favorite nighttime spectaculars are sticking around a little longer. Both “Paint the Night” and “Wondrous Journeys” have been extended through Aug. 20, 2026. That means you get a little over an extra week to catch these beloved shows before they take their final bows (ribbit-worthy news, if you ask us!). If either show is on your Disneyland bucket list, August may be your last chance for a while.

Family Adventure Maps and Activity Guides (Limited-Time, as of May 22, 2026)

Mickey's Park Rangers booklet

Disneyland has introduced several ways for families to explore the park together this summer. Pick up a Mickey’s Park Rangers Activity Book from select stores in the park. Complete the activities and redeem a keepsake sticker. Head to the Creature Stall at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge to pick up Bina’s Guide to the Creatures of Batuu. These complimentary activities are perfect for little explorers who need a break from attractions.

Pixar Shorts at Tomorrowland Theater (Limited-Time, as of May 22, 2026)

Pixar Short Film sign at Tomorrowland Theater in Disneyland

Need a break from the summer sun? Pixar Shorts at Tomorrowland Theater return (for the first time since 2020!) for a limited time. The 18-minute show is a great way to escape the heat.

Halloween Time (Starts Aug. 21, 2026)

mickey pumpkin at night

You can have summer and Halloween during Halloween Time in 2026! Take a picture with the giant Mickey pumpkin on Main Street U.S.A., see characters in Halloween costumes and enjoy ride overlays such as Haunted Mansion Holiday.

Disney California Adventure Summer Happenings

The summer fun continues across Disney California Adventure. Find interactive adventures, live entertainment and a new version of a fan-favorite attraction.

Soarin’ Across America (New Ride Update – July 2, 2026)

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026 - Soarin Across America Mt Rushmore

In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, Soarin’ Around the World will temporarily become Soarin’ Across America. Guests will once again soar above iconic landmarks and breathtaking landscapes across the United States.

We can't wait to soar over a dozen iconic spots across the United States, from sea to shining sea, including iconic locations such as Mount Rushmore, the Grand Canyon and New York Harbor.

Mabel’s Seek & Find Adventure

Hoppers activity booklet

Redwood Creek Challenge Trail has transformed into an interactive adventure featuring Mabel from "Hoppers." Families can search for hidden discoveries throughout the trail while exploring one of the park’s best play areas.

Disney Friends Dance Party (Limited-Time)

Max at the Disney Friends Dance Party at Disney California Adventure

Over at Disney California Adventure, little ones can join Mickey and friends in the evenings for the "Disney Friends Dance Party" at the Disney Theater. This new, limited-time offering is packed with music, dancing and character fun. During the day, tadpoles can continue to enjoy "Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!"

Summer Vibes Concerts and Celebrate Soulfully (Limited-Time, June 19 - July 19, 2026)

Celebrate Soulfully returns with Summer Vibes from June 19 through July 19. Enjoy summer Vibes Concerts in the Park at the Paradise Garden Bandstand, with live music across multiple genres. Find special characters and live variety acts on Fridays and Saturdays at Paradise Gardens.

World of Color (Transitions After the 70th — Extended through Halloween Time)

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026 - World Of Color Happiness

“World of Color Happiness!” continues through Aug. 9 as part of the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. After the celebration concludes, “World of Color – One” returns to Paradise Bay and will continue through Halloween Time.

Halloween Time and Plaza de la Familia

Miguel puppet show

Halloween Time and Día de los Muertos celebrations start in summer as of Aug. 21. The first Oogie Boogie Bash Halloween party (a separately ticketed event) kicks off Aug. 18!

Downtown Disney District Happenings

You don’t need a park ticket to join in on the Disneyland summer fun. Downtown Disney District is packed with live entertainment, special events and family-friendly experiences throughout the season.

Celebrate Soulfully (Limited-Time, June 19 - July 19, 2026)

Downtown Disney joins the summer fun with Celebrate Soulfully offerings, including live entertainment, food, music and cultural experiences.

Disney On The Yard Presents Yardfest (Limited-Time, June 19 - July 19, 2026)

Returning June 19, Yardfest celebrates the traditions and culture of historically Black colleges and universities with energetic performances led by Drum Major Mickey Mouse.

The Bubbles Experience (Limited-Time, July 10 - Aug. 16, 2026)

Throughout the afternoons and evenings, bubbles will fill the air every day near the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage and lawn.

Disneyland Resort Hotel Happenings

Keep the fun going long after you leave the parks, with pool parties, movie nights and special summertime activities at the Disneyland Resort Hotels for overnight guests.

Summer Pool Parties (Limited-Time, July 2, 2026 through Labor Day Weekend)

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026 - Kid jumping into the Disneyland Hotel pool

Beginning July 2, 2026, all three Disneyland Resort hotels will host summer pool parties featuring music, games and occasional character appearances twice weekly.

Outdoor Movie Nights (Limited-Time, June through September)

Select evenings throughout the summer, guests can enjoy movies under the stars at Disneyland Hotel and Pixar Place Hotel.

Dug’s Dance Party (Limited-Time, June through August)

Pixar Place Hotel guests can join Dug from "Up" for a rooftop dance party on select Friday evenings throughout the summer.

Additional hotel offerings include:

  • Friendship bracelet making
  • Learn to Draw classes
  • Washcloth creations

Summer Deals

Disneyland’s Summer Hoppenings: Everything New, Returning and Extended for Summer 2026 - Woman with cooling towel, fans and spray bottle in Cars Land

BOOK NOW AND SAVE UP TO 30% on select stays at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the Disneyland Hotel, Pixar Place Hotel or the Villas at Disneyland Hotel through Sept. 8, 2026. Plus, you can secure your Disneyland hotel reservation for a refundable $200 deposit today, and pay the remainder 30 days prior to check-in!

Planning a Disneyland summer 2026 visit and want to save big? One of our favorite summer deals is Disneyland's Kids Summer Ticket Offer.

Available for visits now through Sept. 7, 2026, children ages 3 to 9 can visit Disneyland Resort at a major discount with the purchase of a special 1-Day Park Hopper ticket. Better yet, Undercover Tourist offers even more savings, with kids tickets from as low as $48 per day. 2-Day and 3-Day Park Hopper tickets are also available.

Halloween Time kicks off Aug. 21, 2026. That means you can use the kids summer ticket offer for the beginning of Halloween at Disneyland as well!

There’s never been a better time to hop over to Disneyland Resort. What are you most looking forward to at Disneyland this summer? Grab your discount Disneyland tickets through Undercover Tourist, and start planning the ultimate summer vacation.

Related: 20 Cool Tips for Visiting Disneyland in Summer 2026

Related: Disneyland Park Plan for Toddlers and Preschoolers

Hoppy planning!

Written and reviewed by the Undercover Tourist Content Team
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Undercover Tourist is the leading supplier of online discount tickets to Orlando, Florida-area attractions, including Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld® Orlando, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and more.

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