When the Year of the Horse galloped into Disney California Adventure Park for the Lunar New Year Festival this year, it wasn’t just the colorful décor and festive performances that had food lovers buzzing…the flavors stole the show. From bold, savory noodles to delicate, sweet treats and inventive plant-based delights, this celebration of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean culinary traditions has transformed Paradise Gardens into a must-visit destination for adventurous eaters. Whether you’re wandering through the Lucky 8 Lantern marketplace or snagging a perfectly seasoned dish at Prosperity Bao & Bun, every bite is an opportunity to taste something new and unforgettable.
To make the most of the feast, many guests are picking up the festival’s Sip and Savor Pass, a tasty little pass that lets you sample your way through the event’s highlights without juggling receipts or counting cash. For 2026, the pass includes six digital coupons redeemable for select food items and non-alcoholic beverages at participating Lunar New Year Marketplaces and select dining locations throughout the park. The cost is $49 (tax included), and Disneyland Resort Magic Key holders enjoy a special discounted price of $46. You don’t need the pass to try items; you can purchase a la carte instead if you wish.
Insider Tip: Purchase any available Lunar New Year Marketplace food and nonalcoholic beverage items at any Lunar New Year Marketplace. Then pick up your order from the respective marketplace locations by presenting your receipt at each location’s pickup window.
Also, you do not need to use up all six of your tastings in one visit. If you plan to return another day during this year’s festival, you can use the remaining tastings on your next visit.
I only tried three items during my last visit, and I will be back next weekend to try three more. Be sure to check back here for an updated review.
Five-Spice Popcorn Chicken with Sweet Chile-Garlic Sauce (Bamboo Blessings)-NEW
I am a sucker for popcorn chicken, so I was pretty excited when I heard about this one. It’s crispy, and all the spices give it just a hint of a peppery, spicy hit. I didn’t find it overly spicy at all, so if you’re sensitive to spice, you should be fine, especially with the dipping sauce. The sauce is the traditional sweet red sauce you would find at a Vietnamese restaurant for dipping egg rolls. It was tasty, but I preferred the chicken without it, as I enjoyed the full five-spice blend flavor in the chicken. 10/10 rating.
Guava Dragon Fruit Sparkler (Bamboo Blessings)-NEW
Simply® Lemonade, Topo Chico®, and Guava & Dragon Fruit Syrups, garnished with Frozen Dragon Fruit
This drink is really tasty and super flavorful! However, I didn’t find it extremely refreshing, as the syrups in the drink are pretty heavy. I didn’t find this a good pairing with the food, as I kept having to take sips of water afterwards. It’s a fun, colorful drink, and the dragonfruit on top is a great touch. If you’re looking to try a good non-alcoholic drink at the festival, I would recommend this one. 8/10 rating.
Japchae Noodles with Kalbi Short Rib (Longevity Noodles)
This one may be hands down the best food item I’ve ever tried at the Lunar New Year Festival! If you’re a big fan of glass noodles, chances are you will love this one too. The noodles are cooked to perfection, and the beef is tender and well-flavored. There’s just the right amount of green onion in there to add a bit of texture. This is one item you don’t want to miss out on trying! 10/10 rating.
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