Summer 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons Disneyland Resort has seen in years. With brand-new entertainment, rebooted attractions, and the last chance to catch the 70th Anniversary celebration, Disney Vacation Club members have plenty of reasons to plan a West Coast getaway.
Whether you’re visiting with family, planning an adults-only Disneyland trip, or squeezing in a quick DVC staycation, here are our top reasons to visit Disneyland this summer!
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration – through August 9, 2026
This summer marks your last chance to experience the variety of entertainment and offers from Disneyland’s 70th celebration. Visit before August 9th to enjoy the following special experiences:
- The beloved “Paint the Night” parade
- “Wondrous Journeys” fireworks spectacular
- “Tapestry of Happiness” nighttime projection show
- “World of Color Happiness”
- Key to Disneyland Interactive Experience
Bluey Arrives at Disneyland!
One of the biggest recent additions to Disneyland has been the debut of Bluey! With the addition of “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” at Fantasyland Theatre, guests can interact and dance with Bluey and Bingo, participate in games and enjoy special themed food at the Troubadour Tavern. Some surprise guests from the show also make an appearance!
New Mandalorian Mission on Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run
The Millennium Falcon has a brand new adventure starring the Mandalorian and Grogu! This major update provides a huge upgrade in experience for riders, with more dynamic movement and additional ways to participate in the action. To celebrate the reopening, Disney Parks Blog released an article with tips on the rebooted experience. For the first time, there is an automatic or manual mode for the Gunner position, and the Engineer finally has a pivotal role – choosing which destination you will journey to during your mission!
Rebooted Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Batuu has also debuted a brand new timeline! This expanded storyline now encompasses several decades of history of the Black Spire Outpost. Recent additions to the land include Darth Vader, Leia Organa, Han Solo, and Luke Skywalker, along with new props and effects, and the original Star Wars musical score. With these updates, the planet of Batuu now highlights stories from across the Galactic Civil War and the New Republic.
Additionally, there is a complimentary experience available summer at Savi’s Workshop! Intended for children ages 3-9 and their accompanying adult, children can experience the art of lightsaber building through the Youngling Saber Building Expo – A Loth-Cat Crew Experience. While this is experience is free, purchasing the lightsaber after the experience comes at an additional price. The regular Savi’s Workshop experience will remain available as well.
Soarin’ Across America Debut
A brand new Soarin’ overlay – Soarin’ Across America – debuts on July 2, 2026. With a brand new musical score by Bruce Broughton and sweeping film over iconic American landmarks, the new overlay is a fitting tribute to America’s 250th Birthday. With the Epcot version having already debuted, we can look forward to seeing icons such as the Kennedy Space Center, Mount Rushmore, and Denali.
Pixar Shorts at the Tomorrowland Theater
In an unexpected surprise, the Tomorrowland Theater recently reopened after being closed for several years. The Theater is showing an 18 minute collection of Pixar short films including Luxo Jr, Lou, and Smash and Grab. This new addition is a good way to get out of the summer heat – perhaps with a quick trip to the nearby Star View Station DVC lounge?
Summer Activities at the DVC Resorts
Not to be left out, the Grand Californian and Villas at Disneyland Hotel have each planned their own summer festivities. Summer pool parties, deck games, outdoor movie nights, and a variety of activities such as animation lessons, friendship bracelet making, fitness classes, and hotel tours are all available for hotel guests. For more information, stop by your DVC Resort’s Front Desk during your stay.
Lastly, Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar has reopened and is celebrating its 15th birthday! With limited time offerings to celebrate, including the Old Kungaloosh and Ginger’s Pear-adise, this DVC fan favorite at the Disneyland Hotel has the perfect vibes for a summer evening.
There is so much fun and excitement happening this summer at the Disneyland Resort – what are you looking forward to experiencing first? Join in the conversation at the DVC Fan Forums or the DVC Fan Facebook group!
