Pixar Fest at the Disneyland Resort is a celebration of all things Pixar, filled with special entertainment, food, merchandise, and more. In this blog post, we’ll take you through a perfect day at this festival, sharing tips and insights to help you make the most of your visit.
The Magic of the Early Morning Rope Drop
One of the best ways to start your day at Disneyland is by taking advantage of the rope drop, also known as magic morning. By staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel, you can enter the parks up to an hour before the official opening time. This allows you to beat the crowds and get on some of the most popular rides with minimal wait times.
Arriving early and heading straight to popular attractions like Toy Story Midway Mania can be a game-changer. However, it’s important to note that not all rides open during the magic morning hours, so plan accordingly.
Insider Tip: While most people tend to rush towards Cars Land during the early entry, consider heading to other areas like Pixar Pier, where you might find shorter lines for attractions like Incredicoaster.
Immersing Yourself in the Pixar Experience
One of the highlights of Pixar Fest is the immersive experience it offers. From character meet-and-greets to themed food and merchandise, the festival is a true celebration of Pixar’s beloved films and characters.
You’ll see various Pixar-themed offerings, such as the Bing Bong churro (a churro inspired by Inside Out’s Bing Bong), the radical radial tire dessert (a chocolate and red velvet creation), and the Pixar-inspired socks. These unique items not only add to the festive atmosphere but also make for great souvenirs.
Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for special photo opportunities and character interactions throughout the parks. These memorable moments are part of what makes Pixar Fest so special.
Navigating the Parks with Genie+ and Lightning Lanes
With the introduction of Disney Genie+ and individual Lightning Lanes, navigating the parks and minimizing wait times has become easier than ever. While these services come at an additional cost, they can be well worth the investment, especially during busy periods like Pixar Fest.
The benefits of using Genie+ to access Lightning Lanes for popular attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and Radiator Springs Racers are highly recommended. By bypassing the standby lines, you can make the most of your time and experience more rides throughout the day.
Insider Tip: If you’re planning to use Genie+ or Lightning Lanes, be sure to familiarize yourself with the system and make your selections as early as possible to secure your desired ride times.
Dining Delights: Lamplight Lounge and Beyond
No Disneyland experience is complete without indulging in the park’s diverse culinary offerings. During Pixar Fest, several restaurants offer special Pixar-themed menu items that are a must-try for any fan.
The Lamplight Lounge, a stylish eatery with a Pixar-inspired menu features a prime viewing location for the World of Color show. From the lobster nachos to the vegan nacho option, the restaurant caters to a variety of dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a memorable dining experience.
Insider Tip: Make reservations for the Lamplight Lounge’s last seating of the day to increase your chances of being seated on the outdoor patio, where you can enjoy a front-row view of the World of Color show. You can make these reservations directly on the Disneyland app.
Behind-the-Scenes Experiences: Animation Academy
Pixar Fest offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of animation through interactive experiences like the Animation Academy.
These classes are not only fun and educational but also provide a behind-the-scenes look at the art of animation. Participants can keep their drawings as souvenirs, making them cherished mementos of their Pixar Fest experience.
Insider Tip: Check the Animation Academy schedule and look for classes labeled as “advanced” or “master classes” for a more challenging and rewarding drawing experience.
Classic Disneyland Attractions with a Pixar Twist
While Pixar Fest is the main highlight, it’s worth exploring the classic Disneyland attractions that have been given a Pixar twist during the festival. Rides like Hyperspace Mountain and Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, both of which offer unique Pixar-themed experiences for Pixar Fest this year.
By combining beloved Disneyland rides with the magic of Pixar, the festival creates a truly immersive experience that appeals to fans of all ages.
Insider Tip: Don’t overlook the smaller details, such as the Pixar-themed decorations and character appearances throughout the parks. These little touches add to the overall Pixar Fest experience.
Capturing Memories: Photography Tips
With so many photo-worthy moments during Pixar Fest, it’s essential to be prepared to capture those special memories.
Insider Tip: Consider investing in a camera with good low-light performance or bringing a tripod to capture the vibrant colors and details of the World of Color show. Additionally, be mindful of your surroundings and respectful of others when taking photos.
Planning Your Pixar Fest Adventure
No matter how you choose to experience Pixar Fest, proper planning is key to making the most of your visit. Navigating the parks, taking advantage of early entry times, and maximizing your use of Genie+ and Lightning Lanes will be crucial to your success at Pixar Fest. Check out our guide on how to master Genie+ at Disneyland here.
Insider Tip: Consult park schedules on the Disneyland App, make reservations for dining and experiences in advance, and prioritize the attractions and activities that are most important to you and your group. This will help ensure a stress-free and enjoyable Pixar Fest experience.
By following the tips and insights shared here, you’ll be well-prepared to create your own perfect day at Pixar Fest. From the early morning rope drop to the stunning World of Color show, this festival offers a truly magical experience for Pixar fans of all ages. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Pixar and make unforgettable memories at the Disneyland Resort.