Humphrey the Bear is meeting guests at Disneyland Resort for the first time. The classic Disney character joined Donald’s Tales of Adventure dinner buffet at Storytellers Cafe as part of Disney California Adventure’s 25th anniversary.
Disney Character Dining Debut
Humphrey appears during Donald’s Tales of Adventure Dinner Buffet at Storytellers Cafe inside Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel. The mischievous grizzly bear from Disney animated shorts has replaced Goofy at the character dining experience.
Advanced reservations are highly recommended and can be booked up to 60 days in advance through the Disneyland website or app. The character dining format allows guests to enjoy buffet meals while characters visit tables for photos and interactions.
Humphrey’s Background
Humphrey is a snack-loving grizzly bear from Brownstone National Park who appeared in several Disney animated shorts during the 1950s. He starred in Goofy and Donald Duck cartoons and had two shorts as the leading character.
His humorous antics inspired Humphrey’s Service & Supplies shop at Disney California Adventure, creating thematic connection between the character and existing park locations. Until now, guests could only see references to Humphrey rather than meeting him as a walk-around character.
25th Anniversary Disney Celebrations
Disney California Adventure opened February 8, 2001 to widespread criticism for feeling cheap and uninspired. Over the years, Disney invested billions reimagining the park through Cars Land, Buena Vista Street, and Avengers Campus.
The 25th anniversary celebrates the park’s transformation with special offerings running through early 2026.
Soarin’ Over California Return
Soarin’ Over California returns for limited run from February 6 through July 1, 2026. The original attraction features virtual tour of California landmarks including Golden Gate Bridge, Yosemite National Park, Palm Springs, and downtown Los Angeles.
The attraction was replaced by Soarin’ Around the World in 2016, but fans consistently requested the original California-focused version. On July 2, 2026, Soarin’ Across America debuts celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
Special Outfits and Food
Mickey and Minnie debut new outfits on Buena Vista Street beginning February 6. The costumes feature sun motifs and vibrant colors referencing the park’s opening themes.
Schmoozies serves decadent cake shake from February 6-15 with strawberry icing, sprinkles, whipped topping, and cake slice.
Anniversary Merchandise
The Pixar Pal-A-Round Bucket features embedded “Magic Inside” technology that reacts to select park locations, changing color and lighting patterns. The interactive bucket enhances storytelling in lands and attractions while amplifying nighttime spectaculars.
Available beginning February 6 through mobile order at Hollywood Lounge, Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, Popcorn at Grizzly Peak Airfield, Fairfax Market, Mortimers Market, and select carts.
The Disney California Adventure 25th Anniversary Collection includes apparel and collectible pins available at Elias & Co., Gone Hollywood, and Seaside Souvenirs. Artwork features stylized illustrations of Carthay Circle tower, Pixar Pal-A-Round, and Grizzly Peak.
Commemorative Disney Map
On February 8, 2026, guests entering California Adventure with valid tickets may receive complimentary commemorative maps while supplies last.
Grand Californian Hotel Anniversary
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa celebrates its 25th anniversary. The hotel welcomed first guests January 2, 2001 and was the first Disney property located inside a theme park with direct California Adventure access.
A limited edition pin featuring Chip ‘n’ Dale in front of the hotel’s Craftsman-style facade is available at Acorns Gifts & Goods.
Downtown Disney Anniversary
Downtown Disney District opened January 12, 2001. Special anniversary tote and pin featuring the district’s new logo are available at World of Disney for limited time.
Select restaurants serve specialty items including Bananas Foster beignets at Beignets Expressed, French “70” cocktail at Jazz Kitchen, macaron croissants at Kayla’s Cake, and Incredi-Bitz at Wetzel’s Pretzels.
Disney Character Significance
Humphrey’s first park appearance represents significant moment for classic Disney animation fans. His inclusion creates accessible meet-and-greet opportunity while celebrating the park’s 25th anniversary through a character embodying California wilderness theming.
The debut demonstrates Disney’s willingness to feature deep catalog characters during milestone celebrations rather than relying exclusively on contemporary popular characters.
