First Look at Mulan’s Lunar New Year Processional at California Adventure
Mulan’s Lunar New Year Processional has returned to Disney California Adventure for this year’s Lunar New Year celebration!
Related – Mickey and Minnie Celebrate Lunar New Year with Festive New Outfits at California Adventure
Prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting procession that travels from Hollywood Land to Paradise Gardens. As triumphant music fills the air, dozens of brilliantly costumed performers take to the streets, creating a breathtaking spectacle. You won’t be able to tear your eyes away from this dazzling display featuring Mulan, beloved Disney friends, and a spirited group of Chinese entertainers.
The procession is accompanied by a lively narration, explaining the significance of each performance group within the Lunar New Year tradition. The procession begins with a vibrant banner, followed by a graceful dance by the moonflower dancers.
Interestingly, this year’s procession features a slight change in the moonflower dance performance. While in previous years, a trio of dancers would gracefully open and close the parade, this year the performance features a captivating duo.
A beloved tradition of the parade is the magnificent dragon puppet, gracefully carried by a team of talented performers.
Following the awe-inspiring dragon, a group of graceful ribbon dancers with flowing, multicolored sleeves enchant the crowd. This year, the number of dancers has been reduced from six to four.
Next, a dynamic martial arts demonstration captivates the audience. The martial artists showcase impressive skills while wearing striking new costumes. Inspired by armor and helmets, these costumes are entirely white, with the exception of the swordsmen, whose attire features bold red trim.
Notably, the additional moonflower dancers that typically followed this section have been omitted from this year’s procession.
The centerpiece of the procession is a grand float featuring Mulan and Mushu. While Mushu previously stood prominently on the main platform, he has been repositioned this year to a lower pedestal, allowing for more space. Cri-Kee, the tiny cricket, has been moved to a lower level to accommodate this change.
Following their absence last year, two drummers have returned to the central section of the Mulan float. While the number has been reduced from three to two, their presence is a welcome addition to the procession. These drummers are now adorned in striking new costumes, mirroring the white armor worn by the martial artists, adding a cohesive visual element to the performance.
Following the Mulan float, Chip and Dale join the procession. Chip energetically perches on the stairs behind the drummers, while Dale follows along, carrying a festive lantern. To ensure both chipmunks get their moment in the spotlight, they playfully swap positions after each performance of the procession.
The procession performs multiple times throughout the day and can be seen during the Lunar New Year celebration. The Lunar New Year celebration runs at Disney California Adventure from January 17 – February 16.
