Pixar Fest returns to Disneyland on April 26 – August 4, 2024 with a new parade at Disney California Adventure, food, merchandise and more! Back in 2018 the parks celebrated a similar theme and this year it promises to be bigger and better than ever! I was there opening weekend to cover the event and have lots to share including the fun photo ops in each park as shown below.
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Pixar Fest entertainment
Let’s start with the entertainment coming to the resort including a parade and nighttime show! We finally have the return of a parade at Disney California Adventure! It has been a long time since we’ve seen a parade in this park. That in and of itself is exciting news. The parade will be shown twice daily at 4:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Check the Disneyland app for times on the day you’re in the park as they are subject to change. Find out more about the parade route which direction it goes at what time and other parade tips here.
The “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” Parade has more than two dozen Pixar characters from The Incredibles, Coco, Monsters Inc., Toy Story, Luca, Soul, Turning Red and more! There is a parade viewing dining package available for $69 per person. It includes Pixar-inspired foods, desserts and cheeses, unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, coffee and a special mocktail. Plus reserved seating for the parade in front of Sonoma Terrace. I’d suggest the later parade viewing because the seating is not shaded.
I’m excited for the return of “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” at Disneyland with all new scenes. This nighttime spectacular will include fireworks on most evenings at 9:30 p.m. Starting May 23rd the show will include fireworks every night through the end of the summer. Don’t miss Buzz Lightyear flying through the air or the UP house flying above the castle during this show. For the best places to watch the fireworks and more tips read this article.
Pixar Pals Playtime Party
Over in Disneyland join the party at the Fantasyland Theatre. Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Pixar Pals Playtime Party area includes dancing with some of your favorite Pixar Pals. Learn some dance moves and even dance with characters on the floor.
The following characters are out for meet and greet… Wade and Ember, Merida, Luka and Alberto, Dug and Carl, Barley and Ian Lightfoot. They are not giving out times when you can see these characters. The line for Wade and Ember was formed and cut off before the very popular characters even came out. They rotate off and on, so if you want photos with any of them you need to plan to be in the area I’d say earlier than later to get in lines.
They also play Pixar shorts on the big screen when there’s no dance party going on. I really enjoyed this area it’s a fun place to hang out and see lots of characters at once! Lots of seating and shade for a fun interactive afternoon break from the parks!
Club Pixar
Also find an all new Pixar themed area at the Hollywood Backlot in Disney Califronia Adventure. This area is open from 4:30 – 8:30 p.m. with games, Pixar shorts shown at a fun drive in movie area and interactive dance opportunities during the night. This is not an adult Club vibe, definitely more of a kid space. Honestly this space was kind of disappointing. If you have to choose head over to Disneyland to Pixar Pals Playtime area there’s more to see and do.
Pixar Fest Food Guide
We all know that no event at Disneyland is complete without a food guide and the Pixar Fest is no exception! Disney shared a complete guide of all the food available throughout the resort in both parks during the event. I was thrilled to hear that my favorite Pixar Fest cake from Plaza Inn is returning as shown below. 
In addition there will be food booths over in Disney California Adventure from May 10 – August 4th! There are 6 all NEW Pixar themed marketplaces.
- The Spark
- Elemental Table
- 4*TOWN FAV*4*ITES
- Portorosso Pasta
- Gusteau’s To-Go
- Hanger Management
Each booth has food and beverages to try. Unlike other food festivals there is not a Sip and Savor pass available for these Pixar booths. But you can order your food at one booth and then take your receipt to the corresponding food booth to the pick up line. This will save you time in line. To make your life easier we have created a complete Pixar Food Guide checklist for you to print off. It even includes all of the Pixar Fest Marketplaces. Click here to print your guide before your visit!
Pixar Fest Characters
There are many opportunities to meet and see your favorite Pixar characters during the event. Use the Disneyland app, search under characters to find your favorites. If you need help find a cast member that has an “Ask Me About Characters” badge on their shirt. One character that is not in the app but is available for photos only (no autographs) is talking Dug from UP. You can find him over on the Grizzly Peak Trail. He was out around 11:45 a.m. when I saw him, but there’s no guarantee so ask a cast member. He was such a fun interaction!
Pixar Fest Decor and photo spots
You won’t want to miss the 25-foot tall sculpture in the Esplanade between Disneyland and Disney California Adventure with the iconic Pixar Ball! Throughout the resort you’ll find Pixar themed banners and festive decor including Downtown Disney.
Pixar Fest merchandise
Disney loves to shower the fans with collectible popcorn buckets and other novelties. Pixar Fest will have plenty of merchandise in stores and sprinkled throughout the resort. You’ll be sure to find something to take home as a reminder of your trip during this great event!
Book your Pixar Fest trip now!
Pixar Fest is a celebration you don’t want to miss! Take advantage of these great deals when like EXTRA day free tickets, plus stack with 3rd and 4th nights free at select hotels. Or call 855-GET-AWAY and speak to one of their travel experts to book directly. Let them know that I sent you to get theses deals! Book with confidence, I always book my Disney trips through Get Away Today at no additional cost.
For more about what’s happening at the Disneyland Resort in 2024 check this out.
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