I finally checked off a milestone on my new parent bucket list—taking my baby girl to Disneyland, all while enjoying the soulful sounds of gospel music in the background.

My husband and I were excited to experience the pioneer Disney park for the first time as a family and it ended up falling at the same time the park was showcasing some limited-time offerings for Black History Month. We rode a few baby-friendly rides like Dumbo the Flying Elephant and Casey Jr. Circus Train.

We walked around the park and enjoyed the sights and attractions. We spent our downtime at the Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland Park, where the “Celebrate Gospel” performances were taking place.

With us going on Saturday, Feb. 8, we had the privilege of witnessing a powerful performance by award-winning gospel singer DOE. She delivered a heartfelt set featuring some of her biggest gospel hits, including “When I Pray” and “Right Where You Are.” Throughout the day, community choirs from across Southern California also took the stage, filling the park with uplifting gospel music.

Black excellence and soul radiated throughout the park, even in the food and drinks. We started our day with lattes and light bites from Sip & Sonder, a Black women-owned brand featured in Parkside Market, and later indulged in a heartwarming lunch at Tiana’s Palace in Disneyland Park. Nestled in New Orleans Square—a charming recreation of the French Quarter—we enjoyed a lively jazz band while savoring a classic catfish po’ boy and a comforting bowl of chicken gumbo with cornbread. And for dessert? Classic New Orleans beignets, of course.

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As our baby napped, we spotted Princess Tiana from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ The Princess and the Frog strolling through New Orleans Square—a perfect backdrop as we dined at Tiana’s Palace and passed by Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. We watched as guests enjoyed the thrilling, music-filled water ride that winds through the heart of the bayou. While we didn’t ride it this time, I experienced it during its debut in November, and it’s an exhilarating adventure—not to mention a great way to cool off on a hot day. New Orleans Square adds a rich cultural layer to the park, reflecting Disneyland’s commitment to inclusivity.

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After two rides, a delicious lunch, and soaking in the soulful gospel performances, the evening chill set in, and it was time to take the baby home. Yet, there was still so much more to experience—if only we had the time and energy.

Among the attractions and experiences we missed but would have loved to take in include:

We didn’t get to see Ariel from the live-action story “The Little Mermaid” as she makes special appearances along the promenade near “it’s a small world” At Fantasyland in Disneyland Park.

A chance to indulge in the limited-time menu items, such as the Black-Eyed Pea Stew with hot water cornbread from Award Wieners and the fried chicken bowl from Troubadour Tavern. Disneyland Resort Chef Nashid Ali developed the stew along with a smoked turkey version available at Tiana’s Palace.

A stroll through Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure Park could have led us to an encounter with Black Panther’s fierce bodyguards during The Warriors of Wakanda: The Disciplines of the Dora Milaje or even a photo op with Sam Wilson—Captain America.

An opportunity to enjoy the smooth sounds of Five & Dime on Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure Park, where the talented songstress Dime and her jazz quintet brought the hits of the 1920s and 1930s to life.

The newly reimagined Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio in Downtown Disney District blends its authentic New Orleans roots with vibrant California influences.

An opportunity to watch Joe Gardner from Pixar Animation Studios’ Soul serenade guests with jazz tunes in the lobby of Pixar Place Hotel.

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