Last updated on January 23rd, 2026 at 10:53 am
Celebrate Soulfully and Black History Month takes place every February at Disneyland Resort.
Black History Month was first expanded to an entire month around the United States in 1976 by President Gerald R. Ford. The past few years I’ve noticed more and more opportunities to celebrate at Disneyland Resort, including Celebrate Gospel (February) Celebrate Soulfully (June) offerings.
This article was originally published in 2023 and receives regular updates for the celebrations.
Black History Events
During February we pay special “tribute to the generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.” (BlackHistoryMonth.gov).
I’m excited to share how you can honor Black heritage and culture at the Disneyland Resort during Black History Month, plus give a look into Disney’s inclusion initiative and how that plays out on the screen and in the parks.
What is Disney’s Celebrate Gospel?
Celebrate Gospel is the celebration of Black heritage, gospel music and culture. Most of the offerings are available each February at Disneyland Resort and some throughout the entire year.
What is Disney’s Celebrate Soulfully?
Celebrate Soulfully is the soulful celebration of Black heritage and culture. Most of the offerings are available each June at Disneyland Resort and some throughout the entire year.
Where are Disneyland’s Black History Month Events?
In 2026 Black History Month moves most of the celebration into Downtown Disney:
- Celebrate Gospel performances with Hezekiah Walker (February 21) and Yolanda Adams (February 28) and community choirs.
- Celebrate Soulfully events and entertainment at Downtown Disney (free, no admission required) in June
Celebrate Gospel
February 20-21 Featuring performances by community choirs in Southern California and headlining talent, Hezekiah Walker on the 21st.
February 27-28 Featuring performances by community choirs in Southern California and headlining talent, Yolanda Adams on the 28th.
More Ways to Celebrate Black History Month
- Five & Dime soulful singer on Buena Vista Street
- Meet Tiana in New Orleans Square and try some of the delicious food at Tiana’s Palace
Celebrate Soulfully
Disney On the Yard – Yardfest: Powered by Celebrate Soulfully (June 19): This community event returns to Downtown Disney District for its second year. During the day, join a celebration of the spirit and traditions that may be found at historically Black colleges and universities, along with drum majors and Drum Major Mickey Mouse accompanied by a drumline.
How much does Disney’s Celebrate Soulfully cost?
All the extras at Disneyland Resort including Celebrate Soulfully and Black History Month events are included with you valid theme park admission and reservation. Get discount Disneyland Resort tickets here.
Any food and drinks are an additional cost (find exact prices on the Disneyland app), just like any other food and drinks in the parks.
Downtown Disney
Come celebrate at Downtown Disney District with family crafts, live music and special offerings. I love this huge selection because admission to Downtown Disney is free (just pay parking).
Here are some of the offerings you can explore:
- Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio. Enjoy soul warming cooking at an eatery fusing its authentic New Orleans roots with its adopted California influences.
You can also dance and groove to live musical performances highlighting genres such as R&B, hip hop, reggae, funk, Motown, jazz and doo-wop.
I love how Black History month is getting more attention at Disneyland Resort. It’s the perfect place to discover your roots, embrace cultural and promote inclusivity. I’ve seen how Disney has done this throughout the year with celebrations like Lunar New Year, Viva Navidad and more.
It’s also more important than ever to learn and grow together and I am grateful to see events like this embraced and celebrated at Disneyland Resort.
