Guests who visited Shanghai Disneyland recently witnessed an unusual treat – a once-a-year traditional Chinese eye dotting ceremony to mark the first day of the Year of the Dog.

God of Fortune Pluto, Mickey and Minnie were joined this morning by the general manager of the resort, Philippe Gas, who dotted the eyes of two lions during a traditional lion dance in celebration of Chinese New Year. In Chinese culture, the eye-dotting ceremony is done to awaken the spirit of the lion and spread good fortune and cheer.

Throughout Shanghai Disney Resort, families and friends can continue to celebrate this joyous time together with a host of traditional Chinese New Year festivities, magical entertainment, special menus and more through March 4. Offerings include a vibrant, high-stepping Shanghai Swing show, the resort’s first-ever Wishing Garden and a daily drum ceremony.

But that’s just a taste of all that Shanghai Disney Resort has to offer this Chinese New Year – there are many more special surprises everywhere you look.

The Year of the Dog is already off to an incredible start at the resort and we’re so excited for what’s to come. This year will be packed full of fun and surprises with the opening of Disney•Pixar Toy Story Land on April 26 – guests can already enjoy a colorful picnic at the Toy Box Café – and the premiere of a Mandarin production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at the Walt Disney Grand Theatre this summer.

We can’t wait to celebrate another exciting year with you!