Chinese New Year Celebrations at Hong Kong Disneyland

Image source: Hong Kong Disneyland Media Images

Chinese New Year is one of the most important events in Chinese culture and, not surprisingly, it's a big event at Hong Kong Disneyland as well. It's one of the most crowded times to visit, but if you want to experience a completely different cultural experience combined with Disney magic, Chinese New Year is not to be missed.

Character Greetings

Mickey and Minnie and friends are typically dressed in all-new Chinese New Year themed costumes. Look at the current Times Guide for designated locations and times in order to snap a photo with your favorite Disney character.

Chinese New Year Eats

Food is a huge part of Chinese culture and that is only amplified during Chinese New Year. Hong Kong Disneyland offers special snacks, dishes, and themed menus during the annual event at both Disneyland and the two Hong Kong Disneyland Hotels. Menu items are designed with traditional foods that represent good luck and prosperity, important elements of Chinese New Year.

Hong Kong Chinese New Year's Night Parade

If you're spending the evening of Chinese New Year itself in town, Hong Kong Disneyland usually participates in the annual night parade hosted by the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Hong Kong Disneyland typically designs a float themed along the motto of The Happiest Chinese New Year Celebration.

Chinese New Year Merchandise

If you're looking for unique Disney-themed souvenirs and gifts, Chinese New Year is one of the best times to find merchandise you won't see at any other Disney Parks around the world. Special clothing, confectionary items, stuffed animals, and limited edition collector pins are some of the items available. Dont miss Disney-themed Lai See Red packets, known as red envelopes. The red envelopes are used to give monetary gifts during Chinese holidays or special events.

Merchandise will be available at Hong Kong Disneyland, the two hotels, and some merchandise will also be available at the store in Hong Kong International Airport.

Chinese New Year Dates

Each year, the celebration dates change, as it's dependent on when Chinese New Year falls. For 2015, Chinese New Year is on February 19. The celebration at Hong Kong Disneyland usually starts the first day and runs the week of Chinese New Year. For 2015, the dates are February 19 through February 22.

Hong Kong Disneyland's Chinese New Year event is not a separate admission ticket and is included with regular admission. If you have a Magic Access Pass, all passes except for Platinum level are blocked out during Chinese New Year week.

Have you ever celebrated Chinese New Year?

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Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.