Shanghai Disney Resort Ushers in the Year of the Horse with Vibrant Celebrations

Shanghai Disney Resort has officially welcomed the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Horse with a series of festive events, including a traditional lion eye-dotting ceremony held on the first day of the Lunar New Year. The celebrations, which symbolize renewal, family reunions and good fortune, will continue through March 3, 2026.

Auspicious Beginnings with the Lion Eye-Dotting Ceremony

A time-honored tradition, the lion eye-dotting ceremony is believed to awaken the lions and invite prosperity and happiness for the year ahead. Andrew Bolstein, President and General Manager of Shanghai Disney Resort, joined Mickey Mouse in performing the ceremony, carefully dotting the eyes of the ceremonial lions. The event blended cultural heritage with Disney storytelling, creating a vibrant and auspicious start to the new year. Laughing Place reports on the significance of this ritual.

Bullseye Gallops into Shanghai Disneyland

In celebration of the Year of the Horse, Bullseye, Woody’s loyal companion from Pixar’s Toy Story, is making a special appearance at both Shanghai Disney Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. At Shanghai Disney Resort, Bullseye debuted on January 28th and will appear in Toy Story Land throughout the Spring Festival. Disney Parks Blog details Bullseye’s role in the festivities.

Festive Décor and Entertainment

Shanghai Disney Resort has introduced all-new Chinese New Year outfits for Mickey and Friends, featuring horse motifs, gold ingot designs, and embroidered patterns symbolizing prosperity. Minnie Mouse will sport a water-drop-shaped collar top with ruffled cuffs and a horse-themed sachet, while Mickey will wear a koi fish hat and horse-embroidered jacket. Disney Parks Blog

Guests can too enjoy equine-themed touches throughout the park, including flying steeds on The Fantasia Carousel and Andy’s toy ponies at Woody’s Roundup. Zootopia land will also feature festive décor with new mayor Brian Winddancer and the Zebros. MickeyBlog highlights these details.

“Spring Festival Celebration: Our Families” Nighttime Spectacular

Each evening from February 16 through the Lantern Festival on March 3, the nighttime spectacular “Spring Festival Celebration: Our Families” will illuminate Enchanted Storybook Castle with projections, music, and the glowing Chinese character for “horse.” This vibrant celebration embodies strength, unity, and good fortune for the year ahead. MickeyBlog

Hong Kong Disneyland Joins the Celebration

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort will also celebrate the Lunar New Year from January 30 through March 1. Bullseye will appear in Toy Story Land for photo opportunities and on the Mickey-shaped lantern in Town Square. Disney Parks Blog

Fireworks Illuminate the Castle

A special limited-edition fireworks show will illuminate Enchanted Storybook Castle as part of the resort’s Chinese New Year celebrations. Shanghai.gov.cn