family fun
Experience the Magic of Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort: Characters, Parades, Nighttime Spectaculars, and More!
Immerse yourself in the magic of Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort: parades, night shows, themed food, exclusive merchandise, and unforgettable experiences!
Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Daily News Staff
Pixar Fest was in full swing once again at the Disneyland Resort, bringing beloved characters and stories from Pixar Animation Studios to life for a limited time. From April 26 to August 4, 2024, guests of all ages could immerse themselves in the magic and wonder of Pixar.
As guests entered the resort, they were greeted by colorful décor adorning Main Street, U.S.A., Buena Vista Street, and the Downtown Disney District. The centerpiece of the entrance was a magnificent 25-foot sculpture featuring the iconic Pixar Ball, instantly setting the stage for the festivities ahead.
One of the highlights of Pixar Fest was the debut of the “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” parade at Disney California Adventure Park. This lively and vibrant parade featured dynamic floats and over two dozen characters from beloved Pixar films. From classic films like “Toy Story” and “Monsters, Inc.” to newer favorites like “Turning Red” and “Soul,” guests were treated to a heartwarming journey through the world of Pixar.
Another returning favorite was the “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” at Disneyland Park. This breathtaking nighttime show illuminated the sky with colorful projections, memorable music, and dazzling pyrotechnics. Featuring characters from Pixar classics and upcoming films like “Inside Out 2,” the show tugged at heartstrings and reminded guests of the power of friendship and love.
The Hollywood Backlot at Disney California Adventure Park was transformed into the lively and energetic Club Pixar. Every evening, guests could dance the night away to the beats of a DJ, enjoy live performances, play exciting games, and indulge in themed food and beverages. Mr. Incredible and Mrs. Incredible even made appearances in their original super suits, adding an extra dose of excitement to the festivities.
At Disneyland Park, the Fantasyland Theatre was transformed into the Pixar Pals Playtime Party, a daytime fun zone for the whole family. Guests could learn dance moves, join Pixar pals in a high-energy show, and participate in various Pixar-themed activities. And for those who preferred a more relaxed experience, award-winning Pixar shorts were screened on a big screen, offering a chance to sit back and enjoy the magic of Pixar.
Of course, no festival would be complete without delicious food and unique merchandise. Marketplaces throughout Disney California Adventure Park offered Pixar-themed menu items, allowing guests to savor the tastes of their favorite films. Limited-time food and beverage novelty items such as a Coco guitar bucket, an Alien Pizza Planet truck bucket, and a Slinky Dog sipper were also available for guests to take home as souvenirs.
Pixar Fest also introduced a new line of merchandise featuring Pixar pals from films like “Monsters, Inc.,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Up.” From the Pizza Planet collection to vibrant character designs, there was something for every Pixar fan to commemorate their festival experience. Limited-time medallions with designs for each Pixar feature film added an extra touch of collectability to the festivities.
Beyond the festival itself, the Disneyland Resort offered even more Pixar experiences for guests to enjoy. The reimagined Pixar Place Hotel featured contemporary guest rooms that paid tribute to the artistry of Pixar Animation Studios. Exclusive entertainment offerings and unique character encounters with beloved characters like Joe from “Soul” and Bing Bong from “Inside Out” made the hotel stay even more magical.
Guests could also participate in a themed fitness challenge in Pixar Pier before the park opened, combining fitness and fun in a unique way. And throughout both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, attractions and entertainment offerings allowed guests to interact with their favorite Pixar stories in new and exciting ways.
Pixar Fest was a celebration of friendship and beyond, bringing joy and wonder to the Disneyland Resort for a limited time. With new and returning entertainment offerings, themed menu items, commemorative merchandise, and immersive experiences, guests were able to create memories that would last a lifetime. As the festival came to a close on August 4, 2024, guests left with hearts full of Pixar magic, eagerly awaiting the next adventure.
SOURCE Disneyland Resort
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Last Updated on October 9, 2026 by Rebecca Washington
From haunted mazes after dark to daytime trick-or-treating with Snoopy, Knott’s offers two ways to celebrate Halloween in 2026.
BUENA PARK, Calif. — Halloween season is underway at Knott’s Berry Farm, where visitors can choose between the nighttime frights of Knott’s Scary Farm and the playful daytime activities of Knott’s Spooky Farm.
For readers planning a Southern California outing this October, the two celebrations offer different ways to get into the Halloween spirit.
Scary Farm brings new nightmares after dark
Knott’s Scary Farm runs on select nights through October 31, 2026, transforming the park with haunted mazes, scare zones, shows, and more than 1,000 creatures, according to Knott’s.
Two new mazes join this year’s lineup. Inked turns a cartoonist’s creations into a nightmare, while Unearthed sends visitors into an excavation where an ancient evil has awakened.
Also new for 2026 is Color Collect, an activity in which guests use an interactive lantern to activate pillars around the park and collect six colors.
Scary Farm requires its own paid event admission. As of October 4, online single-night tickets are advertised from $65, with taxes potentially additional. Knott’s does not recommend the event for children under 13.
Spooky Farm offers daytime Halloween fun
For families seeking a gentler celebration, Knott’s Spooky Farm takes place Thursdays through Sundays, September 24–October 31, plus October 12, according to the park’s events calendar, which lists the additional date as Columbus Day.
Children can trick-or-treat through Ghost Town, enjoy games and spooky stories with Snoopy and the Peanuts characters, and show off their Halloween outfits at Snoopy’s Spooktacular Costume Party.
Other activities include the Creepy Critters of Calico, cookie decorating in the pumpkin patch, and performances by the Bob Baker Marionette Theater. Cookie decorating carries an additional fee.
The daytime celebration gives families a chance to enjoy Halloween decorations, treats, and entertainment together before the nighttime haunt begins.
Planning your visit
Knott’s Berry Farm is located at 8039 Beach Boulevard in Buena Park, California. Before heading out, check the park’s official calendar for your chosen date, operating hours, admission options, and event policies.
Whether your Halloween plans call for a bag of candy or a trip through a haunted maze, Knott’s has a seasonal celebration to match.
Keep the fun going: Visit STM Daily News for more entertainment news, theme park updates, and stories worth sharing.
Official sources
- Knott’s Scary Farm: attractions and tickets
- Knott’s Spooky Farm: activities and entertainment
- Knott’s Berry Farm: seasonal event dates
Information checked October 4, 2026. Event schedules, offerings, and ticket prices may change.
Entertainment
Mattel Adventure Park and VAI Resort: What’s the Latest in Glendale?
Mattel Adventure Park and VAI Resort still have no announced opening date. VAI says construction continues and expects to share more about the park in late 2026.
GLENDALE, Ariz. — The wait continues for Mattel Adventure Park and VAI Resort near State Farm Stadium. Both remain under development, and neither has announced an opening date.
There has, however, been a change in how the park is being described. In August, Axios Phoenix reported that Epic Resort Destinations, the park’s original developer, appears to be out of the Glendale project. Asked about Epic’s involvement, a VAI spokesperson told Axios that VAI is the park’s owner and operator, but did not directly answer whether Epic still has any role. Another VAI spokesperson said the park and resort are now considered part of the same project and that construction continues on both.
VAI also told Axios it is redefining the park’s guest experience and creative vision and expects to share more in the fourth quarter of 2026. That is a promise of a project update, not an opening announcement.
The VAI Resort FAQ currently says it will announce an opening date approximately nine months in advance. Mattel Adventure Park’s Glendale page continues to promote planned attractions, including the Barbie Beach House and two Hot Wheels roller coasters, without listing an opening date.
For families hoping to visit, the practical answer is that there is still no date to put on the calendar. The next meaningful development to watch is VAI’s promised fourth-quarter update: it may clarify the park’s plans, but visitors will need an official opening announcement before they can plan a trip.
Source links: VAI Resort FAQ · Mattel Adventure Park Glendale page · Axios Phoenix’s August report
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amusement and theme parks
Six Flags and Travis Kelce Kick Off 2027 Season Pass Sales With Lowest Prices Through Sept. 7
Six Flags launches 2027 Season Pass sales at its lowest price through Sept. 7, with unlimited visits now through 2027, parking perks, and regional access.
Six Flags is officially in “season pass season” — and it’s starting with a headline deal. The company announced Aug. 7 that it has launched sales of its 2027 Season Passes at the lowest price guests will see this season or next, with a limited-time offer running through Sept. 7, 2026. To mark the 8/7 launch date, Six Flags teamed up with brand ambassador Travis Kelce, celebrating the biggest pass offer of the year on a number that’s become part of his legacy.
The big takeaway for fans: buy early, and you’re not just locking in 2027 access — you’re getting the rest of 2026, too. That includes major seasonal events like Halloween and holiday celebrations, plus the chance to start using the pass right away across participating parks.
What the 2027 Season Pass deal includes
Guests can purchase a 2027 Gold Pass or Prestige Pass at launch pricing and receive admission for the remainder of 2026 and all of 2027.
Kelce framed it in simple terms: unlimited visits, especially heading into fall and winter event season, is the kind of value that would have been “mind-blowing” as a kid — and it’s built for families and friend groups who want more reasons to get together.
Gold Pass: the value play for frequent park visits
The 2027 Gold Pass is positioned as the core option for guests who want maximum visits at the lowest price point. Benefits include:
- Unlimited visits for the rest of 2026 and all of 2027
- Free general parking (restrictions apply)
- Regional park access (East, West, Midwest, or Texas)
- Admission to fall haunt events and seasonal holiday celebrations
- Discounts on select food, merchandise, and tickets
- One bonus Bring-A-Friend Free ticket for renewing passholders and new members who purchase by Sept. 7
Prestige Pass: VIP perks and nationwide access
For guests who want more premium access and in-park benefits, Six Flags is also pushing its Prestige Pass tier. Prestige perks include:
- Access to all Six Flags parks across North America
- Preferred parking at many parks
- Complimentary fountain beverages
- VIP entrance access at participating parks
- Free Bring-A-Friend tickets
- One free single-use Fast Lane per visit
- A $20 in-park credit for new Prestige members and Prestige passholders who renew by Sept. 7
Memberships: month-to-month flexibility
Six Flags also announced 2027 Memberships for guests who prefer a monthly payment option. Memberships include unlimited visits and a range of benefits similar to Season Passes — including multi-park access (based on tier), parking benefits, discounts on food and merchandise, and member-exclusive rewards and offers.
Premium membership tiers add expanded park access and additional VIP-style perks, giving guests more ways to customize how they visit.
Why Six Flags is making a big push now
The 2027 pass launch arrives as Six Flags prepares what it calls one of its most ambitious attraction lineups ever, with major additions planned across regions.
Highlights announced so far include:
- East: Six Flags Great Adventure will debut Bakunawa, billed as the world’s tallest and fastest spinning coaster (382 feet, 100 mph), anchoring a renovated Boardwalk area inspired by Jersey Shore culture. Carowinds will introduce Rip Roarin’ Falls, a super-flume featuring a 100-foot drop.
- Texas: Six Flags Fiesta Texas will debut Werewolf Gorge, described as the world’s longest family launch coaster with immersive storytelling.
- Midwest: Six Flags Great America will open Camp Timber Trail, a family adventure area anchored by Sky Hawk, a suspended family coaster.
- West: Knott’s Soak City will introduce Coral Craze and Kelp Kraze, new family raft slides featuring ride systems making their West Coast and North American debuts.
Six Flags also teased that more major announcements are still on the way.
You can start using the pass in 2026 — and more is coming
Beyond the 2027 pipeline, Six Flags says guests who buy now can take advantage of new or recently opened additions in 2026, including:
- Quantum Accelerator (Six Flags New England)
- Tormenta: Rampaging Run (Six Flags Over Texas)
- Shoreline Pier (Six Flags Great Adventure)
- Daredeviler (Canada’s Wonderland)
- Speedway Stunt Coaster (Six Flags Mexico)
- Looney Tunes™ Land (Six Flags Magic Mountain)
- Phantom Theater (Kings Island)
- A major summer entertainment lineup (Kings Dominion)
And the calendar doesn’t slow down after summer. Six Flags says its 2026 Halloween lineup is coming soon, featuring new horror franchise experiences and new entertainment, followed by holiday events across parks — including the return of a newly reimagined Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Great Adventure and Six Flags Over Georgia.
The deadline to know
If you’re considering a pass, the timing matters: guests must purchase by Sept. 7, 2026 to receive launch pricing and promotional offers. For park-specific details and restrictions, Six Flags directs guests to visit sixflags.com.
For fans, Kelce summed up the pitch: more time at the parks now means more memories later — more rides, more laughs, and more reasons to bring your crew along for the season.
Source: Six Flags
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