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“You’ve got a friend in me!”
The party has just begun now that Pixar Fest is underway at the Disneyland Resort. From food, to shows, to an exclusive first look at Pixar Pier, there is a lot of ground to cover when you enter the park gates. SoCalThrills had a chance to check out the start of it all this past weekend and so far, it’s a big hit with the crowds and guests coming in to take part in the celebration.
Both entrances are decked out in special displays featuring Toy Story, Inside Out, and The Incredibles. As you enter, banners in red, yellow, and blue can be found everywhere.
The decorations are just as big for Pixar Fest as some of the major holidays, such as Memorial Day or 4th of July. Unlike some of the past summer events, such as Monstrous Summer and Summer of Heroes, Pixar Fest has impacted the entire resort, as all three hotels and both parks are pulling out all the stops to bring in the experience.
One of the biggest draws is Tomorrowland’s Alien Pizza Planet, which has taken over Pizza Port until this fall. The green aliens have brought in new food offerings, decorations, and their own flare. It’s a fun twist that is worth a quick look. We also recommend trying the new Green Alien Macaron, which is a tasty option for anyone needing a sweet boost to their day at the parks.
Food is definitely a huge draw, especially since the main feature of Pixar Fest, Pixar Pier, will not be open until later this summer. Almost every location is participating, and if you had a chance to look at our foods preview, there are plenty of options to keep you busy and full. For the first weekend, we focused in on a few snacks, as both parks have a large assortment of churros and sweets available.
If you would like to grab a drink and some popcorn, Monsters Inc. has taken center stage with Mike and Sully themed souvenir paired sipper cups and buckets. They are great as a pair, and are available in both parks.
They will be joined soon by an AP exclusive popcorn bucket featuring Toy Story’s green aliens. 
You can check out the full list of treats and food options by clicking here!
While we wait for Pixar Pier, entertainment is back in action with a new fireworks show and two familiar faces in the parade scene. Pixar Play Parade has kicked off across the way in Disneyland for the first time, and the large crowds indicate that guests are just as excited to see it on Disneyland side as when the parade stepped off in Disney California Adventure. There is a new introduction with Buzz and Woody, along with three new floats that include Luxo Jr, Joy and Sadness from Inside Out, as well as our adventurous pals from Up.
The new floats are mixed in with the traditional set, featuring characters from Toy Story, The Incredibles, A Bug’s Life, Monsters University, and Finding Nemo.
Paint the Night will be shining bright in Disney California Adventure along with a new fireworks show in Disneyland. SoCalThrills will be covering the shows in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for images and video! In the meantime, check out the sneak peek of Pixar Pier that is featured in the recently reopened Blue Sky Cellar. You can see concept art as well as a full model of the pier.
A workable demonstration for the Incredicoaster will also give you the chance to run an attractions control console. If you ever wanted to feel like you are operating an attraction, this is your chance to take the reigns and man the console!
Merchandise is also out in full force. There will be exclusive pins, shirts, and bubble makers that will allow you to take the celebration home. The assortment is quite large, and there is definitely an item or two worth a second look. Here’s to hoping some of the other previously Pixar themed merchandise will also be restocked, such as the Oozma Kappa baseball cap to go along with the Monsters U cap currently found at the resort.
These are just a few of the images taken. A full gallery is below, featuring merchandise, decorations, food, and a closer look at the work on Pixar Pier. More Pixar Fest Coverage is to come, so stay tuned!
