Hong Kong Disneyland first opened its gates on September 12, 2005, on Lantau Island as part of the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. Two decades later, the park has grown in both size and magic, and I had the chance to revisit just in time for its 20th anniversary celebration. My first visit was a long time ago, so this return felt like both a nostalgic trip and a fresh experience.

For more thrills, we headed to Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars in Grizzly Gulch. It was a fast and unpredictable coaster—complete with sudden drops, sharp turns, and a fun backward launch. Easily one of the most exciting rides in the park.

We also took time to enjoy some Disney classics. Cinderella’s Carousel offered a relaxing break, and It’s a Small World never fails to delight with its whimsical scenes and dancing dolls representing cultures around the globe.

The entertainment this time around really stood out. I got to watch Mickey and the Wondrous Book, a live musical that brings together characters and songs from various Disney stories in a clever, book-themed performance. I also watched Moana: A Homecoming Celebration, a smaller outdoor show that shares Moana’s story through Polynesian-inspired dance, music, and narration.

But the show that truly impressed me was the Festival of the Lion King. It was easily one of the grandest and most theatrical experiences in the park. Held in a large circular indoor theater, the show featured towering set pieces, elaborate costumes, fire dancers, acrobats, and powerful live singing. Each section of the theater was themed after different animal groups, and the performers entered from all angles, making the whole experience immersive. It wasn’t just a simple retelling of the movie—it was a full-scale stage production with its own energy, movement, and heart. I was genuinely amazed by the scale and quality.

Later in the afternoon, we watched “Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle!”—a special, one-year-only concert-style show in front of the Castle of Magical Dreams. It featured Mickey, Minnie, the Disney Princesses, and Duffy and Friends, all performing together with music, dancing, and vibrant visuals. It was a fun and upbeat show that added even more energy to the day.

As part of the 20th anniversary, we caught the colorful “Friendtastic” parade, which featured 11 floats and 11 groups of Disney Friends, including Mickey and Friends, Duffy and Friends, and Mirabel and Isabela from Encanto. Each float was lively, and the characters danced and interacted with the crowd, making the entire Main Street, U.S.A. feel like one big celebration.

We explored the newly opened Arendelle – The World of Frozen, which felt like walking straight into the movie. One of the highlights was Frozen Ever After—a surprisingly thrilling boat ride with sudden drops, backward sections, and dramatic scene changes. With impressive animatronics, immersive effects, and beloved songs, it delivered more excitement than we expected. It wasn’t just charming—it was a real ride experience.

To end the visit, we stayed for the “Momentous” Nighttime Spectacular. Even without fireworks that evening, the combination of castle projections, lighting effects, and classic Disney music created a magical and heartfelt conclusion to the day.