Disneyland’s Mother’s Day Then and Now – What Was & What Is!

Believe it or not, I used to spend every Mother’s Day at Disneyland. To some, that might seem strange, but for me, there’s no place I’d rather celebrate than at The Happiest Place on Earth. Although there are still many ways to commemorate the special occasion at the resort, one event remains unparalleled: Disneyland Hotel’s Royal Buffet.

Since then, there’s never been anything quite like it (and many were sad to see it go). So, let’s look back at the Disneyland Hotel’s Royal Buffet that celebrated Mother’s Day done right! We’ll also look at this year’s offerings, plus a few unofficial activities you can take advantage of at the parks to celebrate all the moms in your life! And we’d like to hear your thoughts on how you celebrate the mother figures in your life and how you’d like to see Disneyland’s Mother’s Day activities evolve.  

Princess for a Day at the Disneyland Hotel’s Royal Buffet!

Until around the mid-2010s, the Disneyland Hotel hosted a swanky “party” to celebrate all the superwomen in our lives – the Royal Buffet.

The Disneyland Hotel’s Royal Buffet was a family tradition for me, first to celebrate my mom and then when I became a mom myself! One thing I loved about it was that it felt like an elegant affair but had no pretentiousness.

Over the years, my family has celebrated Mother’s Day at Disneyland in many different ways. We visited Goofy’s Kitchen and Storytellers Cafe for brunches and buffets and Blue Bayou and Carthay Circle Restaurants for special offerings within the parks (more about those later). BUT, nothing has ever come close to the Royal Buffet. 

Disneyland Hotel’s Royal Buffet: The Ambiance

The event was held in the Grand Ballroom from late morning through early afternoon (in later years the cost was around $70). The surroundings were stunning and included a live band dressed to the nines. Upon entering, guests received a special button to mark the occasion.

While waiting to be called to your table, you could take advantage of unique photo ops with magical backdrops. One year, there was even a throne for moms (although my toddler son insisted on keeping the seat to himself!)

As you made your way to your seat, the floral arrangements and enchanting ambiance really made moms feel special!

Disneyland Hotel’s Royal Buffet: The Menu

Once seated, guests were treated to a complimentary champagne beverage before visiting buffet stations catering to breakfast, meats, and every fan’s favorite, seafood! In addition, there were omelet and carving stations, and of course desserts galore. At one point, there was even a chocolate fountain! 

The buffet was also great for kids, with all the usual favorites with a Disney twist, like the Mickey waffles!

Disneyland Hotel’s Royal Buffet: Regal Characters

Between moseying around for favorite food finds, guests could also take advantage of character meet-and-greet opportunities throughout the ballroom. It was truly a special event.

Although buffets are common for Mother’s Day celebration (giving moms who spend a lot of time in the kitchen a much-needed break), the grandeur of Disneyland Hotel’s Royal Buffet is what made this event so special. The spectacular decor, dazzling floral arrangements, live entertainment, upscale menu, and additional Disney touches like the buttons and character interactions made the event a standout celebration.

I was sorry to see it go, but hope to see its return in the future (or at least something comparable) although I’m sure today, it would come at a much heftier price tag!

Mother’s Day at the Disneyland Resort – 2024

This year, Disneyland’s advertised offerings are minimal – at least when compared with times past. We shared some of the details in the Monday update, but for those who missed it, here’s the rundown!

Disneyland Park: Brunch Buffet + Special Treats Available Across the Resort

Plaza Inn is offering a Mother’s Day brunch buffet hosted by Minnie and friends from May 10-12. After being greeted with a photo op and a flower, moms will be treated to a delicious meal, with options ranging from a carving station and fried chicken to assorted desserts. Brunch will be offered from 8 a.m. to 12 noon for $79 per guest (ages 10+) and $39 per child (ages 3 to 9).

Here are the Mother’s Day Brunch selections:

• Carving station: Roasted New York strip steak and slow-roasted turkey breast
• Fried chicken
• Made-to-order omelets
• French toast
• Assorted pastries and mini desserts
• A selection of specialty beverages

In addition to brunch, guests can indulge in two special treats on May 5-12: the Tulip Cake Pop (New) and the Pink Minnie Caramel Apple. You’ll find both treats at various candy locations around the resort, including Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen in Disneyland and Trolley Treats in California Adventure.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: Brunch & Dinner Buffet + Special Treats Available

Storytellers Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is offering both a brunch and dinner buffet for moms on May 12th. Brunch is the more affordable option ($60 per guest ages 10+ and $32 per child ages 3 to 9). The first portion of the all-you-care-to-eat affair will run from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Here’s the brunch lineup:

• Prime rib roast with creamy horseradish and au jus
• Lemon and herb-baked turkey breast
• Banana Fosters French toast
• Honey-glazed ham
• Pork belly chilaquiles
• An array of breakfast options, both hot and cold
• Assorted sweets, including warm bread pudding with vanilla sauce

The dinner buffet takes place from 3-9 p.m. for $85 per guest (ages 10+), and $35 per child (ages 3 to 9). Among the menu items are prime rib, turkey breast, and as usual, plenty of desserts! Characters will also be out and about for photos to commemorate the occasion.

Here’s the Storyteller’s menu for dinner:

• Prime rib roast with creamy horseradish and au jus
• Lemon and herb-baked turkey breast
• Shrimp cocktail
• Harissa airline chicken with Basmati rice
• Quinoa-crusted salmon with stewed beluga lentils
• Roasted pork loin with peaches and mizuna
• An array of classic comfort foods, both hot and cold
• Assorted sweets, including warm bread pudding with vanilla sauce

If you’re not too full from the buffet and want to pick up a quick gift, head to the Grand Californian Great Hall Cart nearby for a Mickey-shaped Mother’s Day Cookie, or Box of Assorted Cookies. These will be available from May 3rd through 13th. 

Unofficial Mother’s Day Activities at the Disneyland Resort

If you can’t snag a reservation to any of the offerings above, you’re still in luck. It is Disneyland, after all, and although they certainly aren’t as “over-the-top” as the Royal Buffet, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate Disney moms at the resort!

Keep in mind that reservations are always recommended, but there’s no harm in attempting a walk-up, as you never know what might become available. That being said, reservations are always the safest route when it comes to Disney Parks.

My Recommended Dining Locations 

• Goofy’s Kitchen (Disneyland Hotel) – Although this venue is not offering an official Mother’s Day buffet this year, the Sensational Springtime Buffet is still in effect through May 12th and would be a fitting place to celebrate moms.

• Blue Bayou (Disneyland Park) – This family-favorite ranks at the top of my list! After all, what’s better than enjoying the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction while munching on flavorful food offerings in an immersive environment?

• Carthay Circle (Disney California Adventure Park) – While I’m personally not the biggest fan of the menu here, the glamorous ambiance makes up for it.

• Paseo & Centrico (Downtown Disney District) – Mexican food is my favorite, so I’d love to sample one of these new restaurants for Mother’s Day. Since the Paseo menu is on the pricier side, it’s the perfect spot to treat moms for a special occasion.

PRO TIP: Something to keep in mind is that you don’t have to celebrate Mother’s Day on the actual day. Consider a different weekend (or even a weekday) to avoid crowds. There are still plenty of options to enjoy!

My Recommended Activities Just For Moms!

Usually, moms focus on the kids when visiting the Disneyland Resort, so for Mother’s Day, let it be about her! Here are activities I recommend, that I’ve enjoyed myself:

• Shopping For a Gift – Rather than buying a gift, buy a gift card so she can choose something special for herself! Or order her favorite Starbucks coffee and let her shop in Downtown Disney or on Main Street, U.S.A. and Buena Vista Street – I particularly enjoy picking up goodies from Disney Clothiers in Disneyland and Elias & Co. in California Adventure.

• Time To Meander – This may not be for everyone, but it’s something I appreciate. Take the kids on a ride (or two) and let mom have time to enjoy the resort on her own! Disneyland is a great place to just sit, relax, and people-watch.

• Taking In Experiences – Stop and smell the roses! Rather than your usual park agenda, consider taking in entertainment, shows, and experiences you may not normally make time for. Like watching the Dapper Dans or getting photo ops with mom’s favorite characters.

65 Years of Disneyland’s Barbershop Quartet – The Dapper Dans!

• Enjoying Relaxing Attractions – Slow your roll and enjoy Disneyland’s more relaxing experiences. Peruse the new Adventureland Treehouse, sail on the Mark Twain Riverboat, take a ride on the Disneyland Railroad, or enjoy the sights on Tom Sawyer Island.

I enjoy experiencing a change of pace on Mother’s Day and you’re family may enjoy switching things up too! If you visit Disneyland on Mother’s Day, moms will be given carnations throughout the resort, which is always a nice touch!

Discovering Disneyland’s Hidden Gem: The Magic of Tom Sawyer Island

The Disneyland Rose for Mom

And if you are looking for that perfect Disneyland gift for mom without going to the parks, the Disneyland Rose might be just the thing, if she lives in a climate where it will grow.

The rose magically transforms with pink and orange blooms and has a delightful fragrance. 

Would a Disneyland Rose by Any Other Name Smell as Sweet?

 

Let’s Hear From You!

I hope you enjoyed this journey from Disneyland’s Mother’s Day past to Disneyland’s Mother’s Day present. Despite the absence of the Royal Buffet, Disneyland is still The Happiest Place on Earth, and my favorite place to spend the occasion. Wishing all of the moms, mom-in-laws, grandmoms, aunts, and all the other women raising kids a memorable Mother’s Day!

I’m really interested in hearing from everyone who had the pleasure of experiencing the Disneyland Hotel’s Royal Buffet for Mother’s Day! What did you think of the event? Do Disneyland’s current Mother’s Day offerings meet your expectations? How do you enjoy spending this special day with the people who raised you? Let us know in the comments below and Happy Mother’s Day!