San Diego Comic-Con 2026 Just Got Sweeter Thanks to the New Candy Land Café

Image: Bucket Listers

If your childhood memories include racing through Peppermint Forests and crossing Chocolate Swamps on family game night, prepare for a serious nostalgia rush. This summer, Candy Land is stepping off the game board and into the real world with the debut of the Candy Land Café, an immersive dining experience opening in San Diego just in time for San Diego Comic-Con 2026.

Beginning July 9th at the Bayside Kitchen + Bar (2137 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101), guests will be able to walk through real-life versions of iconic Candy Land locations, including Mr. Mint's Peppermint Forest, King Kandy's Castle, and Jolly's Gumdrop Mountains. Expect oversized candy-inspired décor, vibrant colors, and plenty of photo opportunities that look like they were designed specifically for your Instagram feed.

This limited-edition immersive experience will be created by Bucket Listers—the team behind fan-favorite pop culture experiences like The Golden Girls Christmas, The Malibu Barbie Cafe, and Saved by The Max—the limited-time pop-up is partnering with Hasbroto transform one of the world's most beloved board games into a colorful, candy-filled adventure.

Image: Bucket Listers

But this isn't just a place to snap pictures. Visitors can complete a Sweet Adventure Checklist as they explore the experience and even stop by a DIY cookie decorating station for some hands-on fun. Whether you're a longtime fan of the classic game or simply looking for a whimsical escape during Comic-Con week, the Candy Land Café promises something for every age.

Of course, the menu is just as over-the-top as the setting itself. Guests can dig into rainbow burgers, chocolate BBQ sliders, towering milkshakes, and a shareable "Chocolate River" fondue experience inspired by the game's sweetest landmarks. Colorful zero-proof beverages and playful cocktails round out the menu, many featuring interactive elements designed for sharing with friends.

"Bucket Listers is thrilled to work with Hasbro to bring Candy Land to life in a way fans have never experienced before," said Derek Berry, President of Experiences at Bucket Listers. "This is more than a café—it's a full journey through one of the most popular games of all time."

With San Diego preparing to welcome thousands of fans for SDCC 2026, the Candy Land Café feels perfectly timed. Between the immersive sets, nostalgic references, and sugar-filled menu, it may just become one of the hottest tickets of the summer.

Tickets for the limited-time experience will be available exclusively through Bucket Listers. Click here to get on the waitlist If you've ever dreamed of stepping inside Candy Land, now's your chance to make that childhood fantasy a reality.