Hey there, Zoe! Welcome to planDisney! Oh my goodness, Coco is one of my absolute favorite Disney and Pixar films—the music, the story, the beautiful animation… It truly warms the proud corazón, doesn't it?
I completely share your excitement about Coco at Disney California Adventure Park! Disney did announce exciting conceptual plans for a new area inspired by the film during D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event last summer. While we know they're dreaming up something truly special that will transport us to the Land of the Dead, most of the specific details about the new experiences haven't been officially announced just yet. You can see the beautiful concept art and read the initial announcement yourself over on the
Disney Parks Blog, which is an excellent place to watch for the latest official news as plans develop further!
Regarding meeting characters like Miguel, Héctor Rivera, Mamá Imelda, and Ernesto de la Cruz near the attraction—that's a great question! Since details are still under wraps, information about specific character meet-and-greets isn't available just yet. Oh, how I wish I had my crystal ball (or maybe an alebrije guide!) to see all the details. Believe me, Zoey, I’m just as excited as you are! What I can tell you is that Miguel himself is known to make appearances around the parks! I've spotted him greeting guests in both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
Even though details on that future magic are still unfolding, there are already some truly wonderful ways you can celebrate the spirit and characters of Coco at the Disneyland Resort right now and in the coming seasons! First up, starting this summer with the exciting
Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration, keep an eye out for the
Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! parade, which is expected to return. Miguel and his loyal companion, Dante, were part of the fun before, so hopefully they'll rejoin the festivities! And speaking of best pals, get ready—Miguel and Dante will be joining the "it's a small world" attraction at Disneyland Park! What's extra special is that you'll get to see Dante in his dazzling and colorful alebrije form.
If you visit during the fall season, you absolutely must experience
Plaza de la Familia at Disney California Adventure Park. The entire Paradise Gardens area transforms into an immersive celebration inspired by Coco with beautiful decorations and music reminiscent of the movie, with special appearances by Miguel!
Lastly, Zoe, here's a tip regarding characters like Ernesto de la Cruz: sometimes they make surprise appearances during special events! I was thrilled to see him serenading guests during
Oogie Boogie Bash last fall. So, if you happen to be visiting during the season and decide to join the fun at Oogie Boogie Bash, you just might run into Ernesto!
Zoe, it's clear there's so much Coco magic to enjoy at the Disneyland Resort! Like you, I'll be eagerly watching for every exciting update about the new Coco-inspired area—it's going to be truly unforgettable when it arrives! Wishing you a visit filled with joy, music, and family. If you have any more questions as you continue planning, ¡Recuérdame! (remember me!) and don’t hesitate to reach out! ¡Saludos!
Cody