Disney Dining Serving up the latest Disney Eats, Treats, News, and More!
A major shift is coming to Tokyo Disney Resort as Duffy and Friends prepare to take center stage for an entire year, temporarily stepping into the spotlight long held by Mickey Mouse.
Starting April 8, 2025, and running through March 19, 2026, “Duffy and Friends 20th: Colorful Happiness” will celebrate 20 years of the beloved characters who dominate Disney parks across Asia.
Credit: Shanghai Disneyland
While Mickey Mouse remains the iconic face of The Walt Disney Company globally, Duffy the Disney Bear and his friends have become a sensation in Tokyo Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disneyland. In 2023, Disney revealed that Duffy and Friends generate a jaw-dropping $500 million annually in merchandise sales, cementing their status as Disney’s most lucrative park mascots.
What to Expect at “Duffy and Friends 20th: Colorful Happiness”
The year-long celebration at Tokyo Disney Resort promises a vibrant experience for fans. Highlights include:
- Duffy-themed decorations across the resort.
- Character meet-and-greets featuring Duffy, ShellieMay, Gelatoni, StellaLou, CookieAnn, ‘Olu Mel, and LinaBell.
- Special menus with unique Duffy-inspired treats.
- Exclusive merchandise that’s sure to spark massive demand, as seen with eight-hour lines for LinaBell’s latest launch in Shanghai Disneyland earlier this year.
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort
Guests can also enjoy Duffy and Friends’ Wonderful Friendship, a year-round heartwarming dinner show at Tokyo DisneySea, where the characters have their permanent home.
The Rise of Duffy and Friends
Duffy the Disney Bear made his debut at Walt Disney World Resort in 2002 as “The Disney Bear.” However, his real breakthrough came with a 2005 relaunch in Tokyo DisneySea. Since then, the lineup has expanded to include ShellieMay, Gelatoni, StellaLou, CookieAnn, ‘Olu Mel, and LinaBell—each with unique personalities that resonate with fans:
- Duffy the Disney Bear: Minnie’s handmade gift to Mickey for his travels.
- ShellieMay: Duffy’s adventurous best friend and a skilled crafter.
- Gelatoni: An artistic cat with a flair for painting.
- StellaLou: A Broadway-bound bunny with big dreams.
- CookieAnn: A chef dog known for her culinary creations.
- ‘Olu Mel: A ukulele-playing turtle born at Disney’s Aulani Resort.
- LinaBell: A clever pink fox with a massive fanbase at Shanghai Disneyland.
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort
Duffy and Friends Events to Look Forward To
Before the main event kicks off, fans can enjoy Duffy & Friends: Wonderful Kitchen from January 15 to March 31, 2025. This pre-celebration will introduce CookieAnn and LinaBell for their first-ever meet-and-greets at Tokyo DisneySea.
With “Duffy and Friends 20th: Colorful Happiness” on the horizon, Tokyo Disney Resort is set to captivate fans with a celebration unlike any other. Whether you’re a long-time admirer or new to the Duffy fandom, this event promises to be an unforgettable journey of friendship and joy.
Have you ever visited Tokyo Disney Resort?
