Hi David! (Great name, by the way!) Welcome to planDisney.
Lunar New Year is one of my favorite celebrations at
Disney California Adventure Park. Between the colorful costumes, rhythmic music, and joyful energy,
Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession is a can’t-miss moment, especially if you enjoy snapping photos or capturing video along the way.
While there really isn’t a bad place to watch the procession (the performers bring the magic wherever they go), there are a few spots that truly shine if you’re hoping for great sightlines and memorable photos.
One favorite viewing area is near the Carthay Circle fountain. This location offers a beautiful backdrop as the procession transitions from
Hollywood Land into
Buena Vista Street, and it tends to feel especially cinematic, particularly during the later performances when the lighting softens just a bit. Another excellent option is just beyond the Lunar New Year archway across from the
Avengers Campus entrance. This area feels wonderfully immersive, with festive décor framing the procession as it passes by, and it’s often a little less crowded than some other sections of the route. You can also find a fantastic view across from
The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure in
Paradise Gardens Park. This spot gives you a little extra breathing room and is especially convenient if you plan to pair the procession with nearby dining or entertainment. (If photos are high on your priority list, an evening performance often adds that extra pop of color and atmosphere.)
If you’re looking to extend the fun beyond the procession, Paradise Gardens Bandstand is well worth a visit. Throughout the celebration, you’ll find a variety of live musical performances that highlight the spirit of Lunar New Year. Showtimes and performer details are easy to find by opening the
Disneyland app and tapping the Entertainment tab, which makes it simple to plan your day as you go.
And, of course, no Lunar New Year visit is complete without sampling the food. The celebration features six food marketplaces offering sweet and savory bites inspired by Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean cuisines. A
Sip and Savor Pass is a great way to try a variety of items, since it includes six digital coupons that you can redeem throughout the celebration. Grabbing a brown sugar milk tea and finding a table near Paradise Bay is a lovely way to take a break and soak in the festive atmosphere.
I hope these tips help you find the perfect spot to enjoy Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession. If you have more questions as you plan, we’re always happy to welcome you back to planDisney.
Happy Year of the Horse!
David