PixarFest kicks off today at the Disneyland Resort with a celebration that includes both Disney California Adventure and Disneyland. At a recent media preview, io9 visited both parks and attended Pixar Fest, which runs now through August 4 and features entertainment featuring characters from To redden, Elementary, Soul, And Luca.
KC Wilkerson, the lead media designer for Disney Live Entertainment at the Disneyland Resort, is also the show director for the return of Together Forever – A Nighttime Spectacle from Pixar. Wilkerson explained how the fireworks and projection show has grown since her last visit to Disneyland. “Every single film is represented there. Characters from every single Pixar film appear in the series. The original series featured 59 Pixar characters; everyone returns,” he said. “The new show adds 17, including the five new emotions from Inside Out 2.” Fan favorite release of 2022 To redden also gets two breathtaking moments.
Speaking of new Pixar characters, new faces are coming to meet-and-greet opportunities in areas hosting new shows in Pixar Fest’s interactive zones: “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” at Disneyland Park and that nightly party center at Club Pixar in the Hollywood Backlot at Disney California Adventure Park. Tracy Halas, creative director of Disney Live Entertainment, revealed that fans can expect to hang out with more Pixar friends. “We have Wade and Amber from Elementary. You can meet them along with Luca and Alberto in the Playtime Party Zone area as well as at Disneyland California Adventure Park – they’re dried off and emerging into their humans,” she said. Halas also noted that Edna Mode has prepared something very special: “Mr. and Ms. Incredible [will appear] in their new super suits – this is the first time we’re introducing them. And another friend joining in is Dug [from Up]and I think you’ll be surprised at how you can interact with Dug now.” (Yes, that means he can talk to his collar now!)
There is a special Easter egg scavenger hunt for attentive Pixar fans. Halas explained the fun: “There are hidden Easter eggs in almost every Pixar movie, like the Pizza Planet truck that you can see hidden in almost every Pixar movie.” As you look around the resort, you wonder maybe, “Where can I find a hidden Easter egg-like object?” I don’t want to say too much because I want you to be able to find them yourself. But yeah, you know…maybe keep an eye out for some Pizza Planet trucks.” Online fans have already posted truck sightings at the Collector’s Fortress and even the Adventureland treehouse.
And for the foodies and collectors out there, the celebration also features commemorative merchandise and limited-time food and drinks inspired by Pixar films in very creative ways. Beginning May 10, guests can experience six Pixar-themed food and beverage markets throughout Disney California Adventure Park. Here’s what you can expect:
- Summer dishes inspired by the Italian coast at Portorosso Pasta by Luca
- Reinterpreted classics at Gusteau’s To-Go, topic-oriented Ratatouille
- A playful mix of elements at the Elemental Table, inspired by Elementary
- Fun food perfect for a tween or a boy band (or anyone, really!) at 4*Town Fav*4*ites by To redden
- Comfort food that nourishes your soul at Spark, inspired by Soul
- Flavors that appeal to all your emotions can be found at Hanger Management from the inside to the outside
Check out this gallery for a preview of all Pixar products!