Okay, real talk. Summer break is basically here, and if you're not already planning a Disneyland trip, what are we even doing? The parks are pulling out all the stops for summer 2026, and there's so much new stuff happening that you'll probably need multiple days just to catch it all.
And yes, we're finally getting that Mandalorian mission on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.
The Mandalorian Takes Over Galaxy's Edge (May 22)
Starting May 22, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge isn't just getting a new mission, it's basically becoming a Mandalorian takeover. You'll join Din Djarin and Grogu on the Falcon to track down ex-Imperial officers, which sounds way more intense than smuggling coaxium for Hondo.
But that's not all. They're bringing back those adorable BDX droids to Black Spire Station, and they're adding a whole new projection show called "The Curious Child" that plays after the current Shadows of Memory show. It involves Grogu using the Force to project memories onto the spires near the Falcon, and honestly, we'll probably cry.
Oh, and for the little Padawans in your crew, there's a complimentary lightsaber building experience at Savi's Workshop called the Youngling Saber Building Expo. It's for kids ages 3-9 (with an adult), and while you don't get to keep the lightsaber unless you buy it, the experience itself is free for a limited time starting May 22.
Bluey Live in Fantasyland
If you've got tiny humans in your life, or you just really love Bluey, the Fantasyland Theatre is now hosting "Bluey's Best Day Ever!" They've transformed the theater into a Fun Fair at Bluey's School, and Bluey and Bingo appear live on stage throughout the day. It's shaded, it's interactive, and there's themed snacks. We're not saying we're going to see it without kids, but we're not not saying that either.
New Soarin' Film Debuts July 2
Soarin' Over California is getting a temporary swap for America's 250th anniversary. Starting July 2, you'll be Soarin' Across America, gliding over national landmarks and cityscapes. It's about time they updated that film, and we're here for it.
Dance Parties and Summer Nights
Disney's loading up on evening entertainment this year. Here's what's popping off:
- Stitch's Interplanetary Beach Party Blast returns to Tomorrowland Terrace starting May 22, because nothing says summer like an alien throwing a beach party in space.
- Over at California Adventure, the Disney Theater hosts a new Disney Friends Dance Party in the evenings, while still running Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! during the day.
- Redwood Creek Challenge Trail has Mabel's Seek & Find for a limited time if your kids need to burn energy.
Downtown Disney Gets Bubbly
From July 10 through August 16, the Bubbles Experience takes over the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage with actual bubbles filling the air in the afternoons and evenings. It's peak summer vibes and perfect for photos.
Yardfest also returns June 19 for Celebrate Soulfully: Summer Vibes. You'll see Drum Major Mickey leading HBCU-style performances, plus Summer Vibes Concerts at the Paradise Garden Bandstand through July 19 featuring jazz, Caribbean, and zydeco acts.
Hotel Perks for Overnight Guests
If you're staying at a Disneyland Resort Hotel, you're in luck. Starting July 2, all three hotels are hosting summer pool parties twice a week through Labor Day, plus outdoor movie nights at Pixar Place Hotel and Disneyland Hotel. And on Friday evenings through August, you can hit Dug's Dance Party on the Pixar Place rooftop with the pup from Up.
Additional complimentary activities include friendship bracelet making and Learn to Draw classes, so check with your hotel concierge for schedules.
Don't Sleep on the 70th Anniversary
Just a reminder that the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration wraps up August 9, 2026. If you haven't caught the special entertainment, food, and merch yet, you've got until early August before it's gone.
Save Some Cash and Explore
Disney's offering a Kids Summer Ticket Offer that makes bringing the whole crew way more manageable. Plus, there are complimentary family adventure maps and activity books at both parks to keep the kids busy:
- Pick up a Mickey's Park Rangers activity book at select shops on the west side of Disneyland park. Complete quests, get stamps, trade it for a keepsake sticker.
- Grab Bina's Creature Guide from the Creature Stall in Galaxy's Edge.
- Both parks offer self-guided family adventure maps with curated lists of kid-friendly attractions.
So yeah, summer at Disneyland is looking pretty stacked. We'll see you in the standby line for Smugglers Run.
