The Disneyland Resort officially kicked off the summer with a lavish grand opening event for Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: BREAKOUT! in Disney California Adventure. Themed as a gala for the arrival of the Tivan Collection, the event was attended by Disney officials, Marvel executives, invited guests and media. Many of the officials were available for interviews.

The ceremony was the centerpiece of an evening reception. Guests were invited to tour the Collector’s Fortress during the day, then join for food and drink in the Hollywood Pictures Backlot. The crowd was then directed to the street facing the Fortress, where they were treated to a short ceremony with celebrity guests and a fireworks show. Dessert followed. An amusing element was the change in theming. The elegance of the pre-ceremony event was “vandalized” by Rocket Raccoon during the ceremony.

Then, on May 27th, the new attraction opened to the public as the Summer of Heroes officially kicked off at the Disneyland Resort. Mission: BREAKOUT! attracted long lines throughout the day, even posting a 300-minute wait at one point.

If you didn't get the chance to ride this fun-filled new attraction for yourself just, here's your chance to experience it via our official ride video:

While the new ride is headlining the Summer of Heroes festivites, Disney California Adventure has also added new food, new characters, and new entertainment to the Hollywood Land area of the park. This includes appearances by Black Widow and Hawkeye in the Avengers Training Initiative show (akin to the Jedi Training Academy over in Disneyland Park) and a Guardians-themed dance party led by Star-Lord along with Gamora and Groot — who seems to have returned to his full-sized self.

As for the food, specialty dishes and drinks are now being served at a number of permanent and temporary locations in the area. Additionally, there's now an adorable Baby Groot sipper that's proving popular. While at the resort, I had the chance to chat with Chef John State about these unique menu items and also try my hand at preparing the Savory Strength Falafel Pita with Chef Caine Littrell:

Looking to take home some galactic and/or heroic souveniers? You'll find plenty of those during the Summer of Heroes as well. From plush versions of fan favorites Cosmo and Howard the Duck to pins, shirts and mouse ears, there's a universe of gifts sure to save any Marvel fan's day. The Disneyland Resort's Merchandise Communications Coordinator Ashley Cortez took the time to show me some of her favorite new items now on sale:

So, with a new ride, great entertainment, specialty food, and a bevy of fun merchandise, be sure to check out the Summer of Heroes at Disney California Adventure now through September 10th!

Laughing Place recommends MouseFanTravel.com for all your Disneyland Resort travel planning.