How Disneyland will ‘Celebrate Soulfully’ during 2023 Black History Month

During Black History Month in February, Disneyland will honor Black heritage and culture with a number of limited-time offerings across the resort, in addition to current experiences such as “Tale of the Lion King” stage show, African-inspired cuisine at Troubadour Tavern and training sessions with the Dora Milaje.

Here’s a look at everything coming:

• A resort tradition for more than a decade, “Celebrate Gospel” returns to the Fantasyland Theatre at Disneyland park on Feb. 18 and Feb. 25, from 2:30 to 7 p.m. This tribute to Gospel music showcases uplifting performances by award-winning Gospel music stars, recording artists and community choirs – each sharing their own distinctive style.

• Recording artist Jekalyn Carr takes the stage on Feb. 18, with special guest, singer-songwriter Melvin Crispell, III, and a cappella group Sacred Groove. On Feb. 25, “Celebrate Gospel” features Grammy Award-winning singer and radio host Erica Campbell, with special guest DOE and powerhouse vocal ensemble The Singers of Soul. On both Saturdays, you can also admire the amazing talents of community choirs from across Southern California.

• In addition to its African-inspired menu items available year-round, Troubadour Tavern will offer a special honey-glazed fried chicken bowl and red velvet Bundt cake during “Celebrate Gospel.”

• During the month of February, the Downtown Disney District will offer family crafts, live music and special offerings in honor of Black History Month. Kids and families can express their creativity with crafts inspired by Black heritage.

• Lovepop will feature two cards designed in collaboration with artist Anthony Conley for Black History Month. Artists Ryan Riller and Larissa Marantz will be featured in artist showcases and signings from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Disneyana in Disneyland on Feb. 25 and the WonderGround Gallery pop-up location in the Downtown Disney District on Feb. 26.

• Each evening in February, the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage will host live bands with scheduled acts including LALA Brass, Forward Motion Band, The Rhythm & Blues Brothas and others. On select weekend days, the festivities start in the afternoon with inspiring Gospel music performances by Sacred Groove and The Singers of Soul.

• The Mood Indigo Group will fill the Great Hall of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa with live Jazz each evening in February. At the Disneyland Hotel, overnight guests can paint an animation cel, with artwork of Princess Tiana from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Princess and the Frog.”

• Restaurants at the Disneyland Resort will celebrate Black History Month with limited-time menu items that are sure to feed the soul. From Feb. 9 through March 5, Black-owned food truck Wings ‘N Waffles will serve up delicious sandwiches, plates and more near the building adjacent to Star Wars Trading Post in the Downtown Disney District. Soon, we’ll share the Foodie Guide to all the Celebrate Soulfully goodness

• A new video, produced in collaboration with National Geographic, will debut in the lobby of the Main Street Opera House at Disneyland park, outside of “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln,” bringing to life the story of the historic relationship between Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. Beginning Jan. 27, the video will be played between the busts and portraits of these two giants, recognizing their work together in the fight against slavery. The special presentation is narrated by Robin Roberts and features expert testimonials and the family of Douglass, an American advocate for freedom, justice and democracy. 

• For a limited time beginning in mid-February at Hollywood Land in Disney California Adventure park, you may encounter Moon Girl from “Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur,” which debuts on Feb. 10 on Disney Channel and Feb. 15 on Disney+. The series follows the adventures of 13-year-old super-genius Lunella Lafayette and her 10-ton T-Rex, Devil Dinosaur, whom she accidentally brings through a portal into present-day New York City. They team up to make a difference and protect Lunella’s Lower East Side neighborhood from danger.