Visiting Disneyland in December
Visiting Disneyland Resort in December is like stepping into a world of holiday enchantment. The only issue? Tens of thousands of other people are also stepping into a world of holiday enchantment, so standing in line might take a little bit longer than you bargained for.
The holiday season transforms the Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and all surrounding areas into a magical winter wonderland. From dazzling Christmas decorations to immersive live entertainment, December is one of the best times to experience the joy and charm of Disneyland.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Disneyland in December a great time for both first-time visitors and seasoned annual passholders alike, covering key tips, events, and memorable moments to make your holiday visit truly magical.
The Magic of Christmas Time at Disneyland
One of the biggest draws of Disneyland in December is the Christmas celebration. The entire resort, including Main Street, Town Square, and the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, is adorned with breathtaking holiday decor. Christmas trees twinkle with lights, garlands line the streets, and festive music fills the air. The holiday magic truly kicks into full swing as soon as you step foot into the park, with favorite characters like Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed in their holiday best to greet guests.
Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park both take part in the holiday celebrations, but each offers unique experiences. Disneyland Park leans heavily into traditional Christmas magic, while Disney California Adventure offers diverse holiday time celebrations, including the vibrant Pixar Fest and delicious Disney California Adventure food offerings.
Holiday-Themed Attractions
December at Disneyland means several of the park’s most beloved attractions receive a festive holiday overlay. The fan-favorite, “it’s a small world” Holiday, is transformed into a dazzling wonderland, showcasing holiday traditions from around the globe. The Haunted Mansion Holiday, featuring Jack Skellington from The Nightmare Before Christmas, is another must-see, blending Halloween and Christmas for a spooky yet festive experience.
Cars Land in Disney California Adventure Park also embraces the Christmas spirit, with attractions like Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree adding a holiday twist to the fun. These overlays, combined with holiday decor throughout Paradise Garden and Downtown Disney District, make for a truly festive experience.
Special Events and Live Entertainment
The Christmas Fantasy Parade is one of the highlights of Disneyland’s Christmas season. This daytime parade features festive floats, costumed characters, marching toy soldiers, and even Santa Claus himself! At night, Sleeping Beauty’s Castle shimmers with icy lights during the holiday magic fireworks show, creating a picturesque setting to end your day at the park.
Another December highlight is the nighttime World of Color – a dazzling water and light show at Disney California Adventure Park. During the holiday season, the show is transformed into World of Color - Season of Light, a beautiful tribute to the holidays with holiday-themed projections, music, and special effects.
If you’re a fan of live performances, be sure to catch the seasonal shows at Paradise Garden in Disney California Adventure Park, where you’ll find everything from live bands to folkloric performances celebrating the holidays.
Planning Your Visit: When to Go
One of the most crucial elements to enjoying Disneyland in December is timing your visit around the busy days. December is part of Disneyland’s peak season, especially the closer you get to Christmas and New Year’s Eve. School breaks and long weekends can result in busiest days of the year, so planning around these periods is essential.
For the best experience, consider visiting during the first week of December or after New Year’s Day during the first week of January. These periods tend to have fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the parks without battling through long lines. Keep an eye on the Disneyland crowd calendar and plan your visit on best days for lower crowd levels.
Weather Considerations
December in Southern California means mild weather compared to other parts of the country. The average high in Los Angeles is around 68°F (20°C), while the average low can drop to about 48°F (9°C). While rain isn’t common, it’s a good idea to be prepared for the occasional rainy day. If you find yourself in the park on a rainy day, you’ll find shorter lines and fewer crowds.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Tips and Tricks
To have a smooth visit, it’s crucial to make a theme park reservation well in advance, as Disneyland has shifted to a reservation system that often fills up, especially during the holiday season. Be sure to also check the Disneyland crowd calendar to avoid the busiest days. Here are some additional tips to make your holiday visit unforgettable:
1. Reserve dining early: Popular restaurants fill up fast, especially during the holidays. Whether you want a festive dining experience at Disneyland Hotel or enjoy a delicious meal at the park, book your reservations early.
2. Holiday treats: Be sure to try the delicious holiday treats available throughout the parks. From peppermint churros to gingerbread cookies, there are plenty of seasonal offerings to satisfy your sweet tooth.
3. Take advantage of entertainment: Don’t miss out on all the live shows and performances. Some lesser-known but equally enjoyable options include performances by the dance company or street entertainment in the Downtown Disney District.
4. Use the Disneyland app: The app is your best friend during the holidays. From checking ride wait times to making mobile food orders, you can navigate the park efficiently. Use the question dialogue box for quick access to customer service or check for last-minute availability on special events.
5. Early starts for less crowding: Getting to the park early in the morning is a smart move to avoid long lines. The parks are especially beautiful in the early hours with all the festive decorations sparkling in the crisp morning air.
6. Park hopping: Don’t limit yourself to just one park! The Disneyland Resort offers Park Hopper tickets that allow you to enjoy both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park in the same day. It’s a fantastic way to maximize your holiday fun.
Staying at Disneyland Resort Hotels
Staying at one of the resort hotels can enhance your holiday visit. The Disneyland Hotel and the newly refurbished Pixar Place Hotel offer convenient access to the parks, holiday-themed decorations, and unique seasonal experiences. During Christmas time, the hotel lobbies are festively decorated, and you might even spot Santa Claus making a surprise visit!
If you’re planning to visit Disneyland for special occasions, such as New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, staying at a Disney hotel gives you the perfect base to enjoy the celebrations while being close to the action.
What to Expect on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
The transition from the Christmas season to New Year’s is one of the busiest times at Disneyland. New Year’s Eve at Disneyland is a grand celebration with extended park hours, special fireworks, and unique live entertainment. The parks remain crowded, so be prepared for long lines and make sure to secure your theme park reservation early. If you plan to attend the New Year’s Eve festivities, arriving early is key to getting a good spot for the night time fireworks display.
On New Year’s Day, the parks are still packed but slightly less busy than New Year’s Eve. If you want to avoid the huge crowds, this can be a better option for experiencing Disneyland’s holiday magic one last time before the season comes to an end.
Beyond Disneyland: Explore Southern California
If you’re in town for more than just a day or two, consider exploring the rest of Southern California. Orange County offers plenty of attractions, and you’re just a short drive from the beaches, Los Angeles, or even Walt Disney World Resort if you’re up for a cross-country adventure! While Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney Studios Park offer their own holiday magic, Disneyland Resort in Anaheim provides the perfect mix of California sunshine and Christmas spirit.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Disneyland in December is an unforgettable experience that combines the holiday magic of the parks with the charm of Southern California. Whether you’re there for the first time or a seasoned visitor, the festive spirit, special activities, and the joy of seeing your favorite characters in their holiday best make this a trip you’ll cherish forever. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the busy times, enjoy special events, and create memorable moments with your loved ones during the most magical time of the year at the Disneyland Resort.
So, pack your bags, grab your day ticket, and get ready for a Christmas celebration unlike any other!
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