Guide to the Holidays at Disneyland
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Guide to The Disneyland Resort Holiday
Welcome to the most magical time of the year at the Disneyland Resort! From November 15, 2024, through January 6, 2025, the parks come alive with festive cheer and enchantment that will make your holiday visit truly unforgettable. Explore the dazzling holiday transformation of Sleeping Beauty Castle, marvel at the whimsical lights of the Sha – Boom Lighting Ceremony in Cars Land, and delight in the joyous spectacle of World of Color - Season of Light. Enjoy the charming charm of "it's a small world" Holiday and the merry spins at Luigi's Joy to the Whirl and Mater's Jingle Jamboree. Experience the captivating Haunted Mansion Holiday, and immerse yourself in the festive magic of Disney ¡Viva Navidad! And don’t miss out on the festive fun at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the charming Holiday Toy Drummers. Each moment is designed to celebrate the season with heartwarming magic, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
updated: September 12, 2024
The guide is broken up into Attractions and Entertainment by each park for easier planning.
Attractions: Disneyland Resort
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opening
If you're visiting Disneyland during the holidays, you've got to make time for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure— it opens November 15, 2024, and it’s going to be an absolute must-do! My family and I are already counting down the days until we can join Princess Tiana on this incredible new musical journey through the Louisiana bayou. I mean, who doesn’t love The Princess and the Frog?
Be Prepared for Thrilling Drops and Plot Twists on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!This ride is the next chapter in Tiana’s story, and trust me, it’s going to be epic! We’ll be helping her get ready for a magical Mardi Gras celebration, and along the way, we’ll encounter some familiar faces (hello, Louis!) as well as meet new characters. The adventure is packed with music, storytelling, and surprises around every corner—and yes, those thrilling plunges will definitely keep your heart racing! Who knows where Tiana’s tale will take us next, but I can’t wait to find out!
This is one ride you don’t want to miss!
Haunted Mansion Holiday
Okay, if you love Halloween and Christmas as much as I do, you’re going to freak out (in the best way possible) over the Haunted Mansion Holiday! Jack Skellington has seriously outdone himself, turning the Haunted Mansion into a spooky, merry mashup that’s both eerie and festive—and perfect for a little “Hallow-days” fun!
Decked Out for the Hallow-Days
Decked Out for the Hallow-DaysThe Haunted Mansion has gotten a full-on holiday makeover, thanks to Jack and the residents of Halloween Town. You’ll see frightfully fabulous touches everywhere, with all the whimsy and weirdness of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. As you tour the eerie estate, don’t be surprised if you bump into Sally, Oogie Boogie, and even more familiar faces from the movie—they’re all here to wish you "Season’s Screamings!" The mix of spooky and festive is just pure magic!
Haunted Mansion Holiday Now Open—
Available Only via Virtual Queue
Oh, and one little tip! If you’re planning to visit, Haunted Mansion Holiday is available through a virtual queue only right now. It’s like Jack Skellington is playing a little trick on us while they finish up work on the surrounding area. So, be sure to grab your spot in the queue early—it’s totally worth it to join Jack for this eerie but enchanting celebration! I promise, you won’t want to miss it!
it’s a small world Holiday
If there’s one holiday tradition that makes my heart absolutely melt at Disneyland, it’s “it’s a small world” Holiday! I mean, the magic starts the moment you catch sight of that iconic façade sparkling with thousands of twinkling lights—it’s like stepping into a Christmas card!
An Exuberant Holiday Experience
Once you set sail, the whole world just seems to sparkle with festive joy. The entire ride is transformed with whimsical holiday décor from every corner of the globe. You’ll see dazzling regional touches and colorful decorations that fill each scene with that special holiday cheer. And oh, the music! The familiar "It’s a Small World (After All)" song is mixed with traditional holiday tunes, sung by the sweetest little chorus of costumed children. It’s this perfect blend of wonder and warmth that makes the ride feel like a magical, wintry journey around the world.
If you’re looking for a holiday experience that captures the spirit of the season, this is it!
Attractions: Disney California Adventure
Mater’s Jingle Jamboree
Oh, Mater's Jingle Jamboree is such a blast! If you’re ready to dive into some holiday fun, this is the perfect ride to add to your Disneyland list!
Jingle All the Way
Get ready to spin through Mater’s festively decorated junkyard in a cute little tractor that’s all decked out for the season. Mater himself is there, singing classic holiday tunes with his own tow-riffic twist. His original lyrics are guaranteed to have you and your family giggling as you whirl around his collection of car parts.
The combination of Mater’s quirky charm and the fun holiday vibe makes it a joyous experience from start to finish. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the season and enjoy a bit of Cars Land magic!
Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl
If you’re looking for some wheel-y good holiday fun, Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl in Cars Land is an absolute must! My family and I couldn’t stop giggling the whole time—it’s just that much fun!
Make the Holidays Wheel-y Fun
Luigi and his family of roadsters have totally decked out his backyard for the holidays, and let me tell you, the festive spirit is in full gear! Hop into one of his adorable Italian cars, and let the merry dancing begin! Luigi himself croons holiday tunes while the cars spin, swirl, and glide around to the music—it’s like being part of a holiday dance party on wheels. My kids couldn’t stop laughing as the cars twirled us around, and honestly, neither could I!
It’s the perfect little ride to get everyone in the holiday spirit, and you’ll leave with huge smiles on your faces. The joy is absolutely contagious!
Entertainment: Disneyland Resort
A Christmas Fantasy Parade
Oh my goodness, the magic of the holidays at Disneyland! The excitement of taking your family to experience A Christmas Fantasy Parade for the very first time is beyond words! Picture this: you’re standing on Main Street, U.S.A., and here come all your favorite Disney Characters on floats coming down the street—along with Santa Claus himself! Talk about a holiday treat!
Ring in the Season!
From prancing reindeer to adorable marching toy soldiers and dancing gingerbread cookies, the whole family will be swept away by the magic of the season. A Christmas Fantasy Parade truly adds to the transformation of The Disneyland Resort into a winter wonderland!
Delightful Holiday Highlights
Watch Mickey and Minnie scramble to organize an avalanche of letters to Santa with the help of the ever-mischievous Chip ‘n’ Dale. And just wait until your kids see Anna, Elsa, and Olaf bringing that frosty Frozen magic with a warm winter welcome. My kids just loved seeing Buzz Lightyear zooming through the parade in his spaceship with Woody and Jessie by his side. Oh, and the Disney Princesses at the Candlelight Ball? So dreamy. But let’s be real—everyone’s eyes are glued to the grand finale, when the one and only Santa Claus makes his magical appearance. It’s a Christmas fantasy you won’t ever forget—trust me!
Viewing Tips!
To get the best view, make sure to arrive early! We found some perfect spots near “it’s a small world” Holiday and Matterhorn Bobsleds, but honestly, any place along Main Street, U.S.A. is amazing. Just grab some hot cocoa, snuggle up with the kids, and let the holiday joy wash over you!
"Believe...In Holiday Magic" Fireworks Spectacular
By far my absolute favorite is the holiday fireworks show that’s pure magic! You have to catch the "Believe...In Holiday Magic" Fireworks Spectacular! It’s an enchanting way to end a perfect Disneyland day.
Enchantment Is in the Air
Get ready to have your heart soar as the night sky lights up with a dazzling display of fireworks. As you look up, Sleeping Beauty Castle comes alive with over 80,000 twinkling lights, sparkling “icicles,” and shimmering snow-capped turrets. It’s like a fairy tale right before your eyes!
Tonight’s Forecast: Snow!
But wait, there’s more! As part of this magical experience, you’ll get a special wintry treat—real “snow” falling around “it’s a small world” Holiday, parts of Main Street, U.S.A., and along the Rivers of America. It’s the perfect touch to make you feel like you’re in a holiday wonderland.
So grab your loved ones, find a cozy spot, and get ready to be swept away by this beautiful, joyous jubilee of lights and sounds. It’s a spectacular celebration of the season you won’t want to miss!
Sleeping Beauty Castle Holiday Lights
You can’t miss the enchanting seasonal transformation of Sleeping Beauty Castle during the holidays at Disneyland Resort!
An Enchanting Seasonal Transformation
Every evening, the castle gets a magical makeover, sparkling with icicles, wreaths, and festive décor. As dusk falls, gather around to see the iconic castle come to life in a breathtaking display. Thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the castle in stages, creating a shimmering, fairy-tale spectacle.
Add in the gentle snowfall and the festive music, and you’ve got a truly mesmerizing scene that feels like it’s straight out of a holiday storybook. It’s one of those moments that will make your heart feel warm and full of holiday cheer. Make sure to carve out some time to experience this magical transformation—it’s absolutely unforgettable!
it’s a small world Holiday Lighting
Oh, you absolutely have to experience the magic of the "it’s a small world" Holiday Lighting! It’s one of those truly unforgettable Disneyland moments that just takes your breath away.
Light Up Your Holidays
The excitement starts as you approach the ride and hear the familiar notes of "It’s a Small World (After All)" mixed with traditional holiday music. But when dusk falls, that's when the real magic happens! The iconic façade suddenly bursts into a dazzling display of twinkling lights—thousands of them! It’s like the whole place just comes to life with festive joy. And let me tell you, the looks on my kids’ faces were priceless as they saw it light up for the first time!
But wait, there’s more! Every 30 minutes, the façade transforms again with a stunning light projection show, turning into a kaleidoscope of holiday colors and images. It’s pure enchantment, and watching it unfold is the perfect way to embrace the magic of the season. Seriously, it’s a nighttime treat you and your family won’t forget—so make sure to stick around for the show!
New Holiday Experiences for 2024
Join Santa Clause and select characters at the Fantasyland Theatre at Disneyland to create special memories with your family. This experience will also feature cookie decorating, craft making, storytelling, and atmospheric music throughout the day.
Santa will also make stops for photos at Redwood Creak Challenge Trail in Disney California Adventure park, Disney’s Grand California Hotel & Spa, Disneyland Hotel, and Pixar Place Hotel through December 24th.
Entertainment: Disney California Adventure
Cars Land Lighting - Sha-Boom
Be sure to check out the Sha – Boom Lighting Ceremony if you're at Disney California Adventure! It’s one of those special little moments that makes the park truly magical.
Sha – Boom Lighting Ceremony
Right after sunset every night, Cars Land comes alive in the most spectacular way. As the holiday song “Winter Wonderland” starts to play, the neon lights in the land spring to life, creating a dazzling display of color and light. It’s a re-creation of that iconic moment from Cars when Lightning McQueen turns on the lights in Radiator Springs, and it’s even more enchanting with the holiday twist!
For the best view, head to the corner of Cross Street and Route 66 near Flo’s, Ramone’s, and Luigi’s, or get cozy in front of the Cozy Cone Motel or Flo's V8 Cafe. The transformation happens a few minutes after sunset, so check the sunset time on your Weather app to make sure you’re there in time. The whole experience is short but oh-so-sweet, and it’s a beautiful way to embrace the magic of the season in Cars Land!
Pictures with Santa
Okay, so picture this—you and your family are wandering through the beautiful Redwood Creek Challenge Trail when suddenly, you hear the sound of jingling bells. Yep, it’s true—Santa Claus himself is here! I mean, can you even imagine how excited the kids will be when they realize they’re about to meet the big man in red? Cue the squeals of delight!
Say Hello to Santa
This isn’t just any regular visit to see Santa; it’s a whole festive experience! Redwood Creek Challenge Trail has been turned into a holiday wonderland, with Santa and his merry elves spreading Christmas cheer left and right. And guess what? You’re invited to join in all the fun! Stop by the Ahwahnee Camp Circle, where Santa’s waiting with open arms, ready to hear all about how good you’ve been this year (because, obviously, you’ve been nothing but nice!). Don’t forget to snap those adorable pics—it’s a must for the holiday scrapbook! Be sure to use the Disney Photopass so everyone can be in the picture.
Test Your Skills!
And it doesn’t stop there! Once you’re inside Redwood Creek, grab an activity map and get ready for some seriously cute elfish games. The kids will have a blast hunting down Santa’s colorful presents and solving a secret puzzle along the way. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and holiday magic—trust me, this is one part of the trip you won’t want to miss!
Disney ¡Viva Navidad!
Let me tell you, if you’re looking to spice up your holidays at Disneyland, you have to check out Disney ¡Viva Navidad! It’s like a burst of festive energy wrapped up in colorful banners, delicious food, and all the family feels! Honestly, it’s such a fun celebration, my family didn’t stop smiling for a second.
A Spirited Celebration
The entertainment is just non-stop! Every day has something new to enjoy—from live performances filled with dancing and music, to festive moments with Mirabel from Encanto or Miguel from Coco. The vibe is so high energy, it’s like being part of a huge family party that just happens to have a little Disney magic sprinkled on top!
Party at Paradise Garden
And oh, the décor! I swear, stepping into Paradise Gardens felt like walking into a vibrant fiesta—there were colorful papel picado banners, piñatas everywhere, and this amazing atmosphere that just screams celebration. Don’t even get me started on the food! Paradise Garden Grill is packed with Mexican specialties that will have you saying, "¡Más, por favor!" It’s a holiday feast you’ll want to come back for every year.
Meet Mirabel
If your family’s like mine and absolutely loved Encanto, meeting Mirabel is a must! We stopped by, and she was so sweet—sharing stories about family, home, and all the things that make each of us special. I have to admit, even I was feeling a little bit of that magical family love!
Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party
But the real showstopper? The Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party! It’s hosted by none other than the Three Caballeros, and they really know how to throw a party! The music, the dancing, and those gorgeous costumes had us completely mesmerized. There were mariachis, folklórico dancers, Brazilian samba performers, and these incredible giant mojiganga puppets of Santa and Mrs. Claus—seriously, they’re like 12 feet tall! Oh, and of course, Mickey and Minnie show up in their fiesta outfits to add a little extra sparkle.
Performance dates:
2024: November 16, 17, 23, 24, 30
2024: December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29
2025: January 4, 5
Trust me, this fiesta is unforgettable and a holiday experience like no other! You don’t want to miss it!
Performance dates:
2024: November 16, 17, 23, 24, 30
2024: December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29
2025: January 4, 5
Trust me, this fiesta is unforgettable and a holiday experience like no other! You don’t want to miss it!
Three Kings Day
On January 6, 2025, commemorate the close of the holiday season with this special celebration that pays homage to the 3 Wise Men’s visit to the Nativity. Head to Paradise Gardens to join in the festivities as Disney Festival of Holidays celebrates Three Kings Day with uplifting décor and a fun photo opportunity.
Holiday Toy Drummers
Okay, you have to catch the Holiday Toy Drummers—seriously, they’re an absolute blast! My family and I stumbled upon them in front of the Obelisk at Paradise Gardens Park, and we couldn’t help but tap our toes along with their upbeat rhythms.
Mischievous Music Makers
These drummers are pure holiday magic—think of them as the most playful musicians you’ll ever meet. They’ve got this fun, cheeky vibe as they drum up seasonal cheer with precision that’ll have you mesmerized. And the best part? They’re always bringing smiles to everyone around them. My kids were completely enchanted, and okay, I was too! You can feel the festive energy in the air every time they perform.
It’s one of those delightful little moments at Disneyland that make your holiday trip even more magical!
World of Color - Season of Light
Looking for a holiday show that’s pure magic, World of Color - Season of Light is an absolute must-see! It’s like stepping into a holiday dream come true.
Celebrate the Spirit of the Season
This spectacular show turns water, light, story, and song into an enchanting display of holiday wonder. Imagine beloved Disney and Pixar moments lighting up a towering wall of mist, while hundreds of fountains dance to festive music and shimmering snowflakes swirl all around. It’s like the holidays have come alive right before your eyes!
Stories to Warm the Heart
The show weaves together classic films like Cinderella, Lady and the Tramp, Beauty and the Beast, and Fantasia with contemporary hits such as Frozen and Inside Out. It’s a heartwarming celebration of friendship, family, and love that’ll have you feeling all the feels.
A Jolly, Joyous Musical Score
From familiar seasonal favorites to cherished movie tunes, the medley of music will have you singing and swaying along. And don’t miss Goofy’s hilarious musical light display—it’s sure to add an extra dose of fun and make your spirits even brighter!
Viewing Tips
For the best experience, try to get a spot in the reserved viewing areas. You’ll need a valid virtual queue selection, or a voucher from a World of Color Dining Package or Dessert Party. If you’re looking for a more casual viewing option, there’s additional space around Paradise Bay on a first-come, first-served basis. Just be sure to check the Disneyland app for details and costs of the dining or dessert packages.
From the opening number to the breathtaking finale, World of Color - Season of Light is an awe-inspiring show that’s perfect for making magical holiday memories with your family. It might just become a favorite part of your holiday tradition!
Tasty Tidings
Stop by Disney California Adventure Park to discover a world of delectable possibilities throughout the Festive Foods Marketplace. Share in cultural celebrations through food at various locations. Each delish dish is available during Disney Festival of Holidays, so don’t forget your appetite!
Sip and Savor Pass
Stop by Disney California Adventure Park to discover a world of delectable possibilities throughout the Festive Foods Marketplace. Share in cultural celebrations through food at various locations. Each delish dish is available during Disney Festival of Holidays, so don’t forget your appetite!
Get the most holiday cheer out of the Disney Festival of Holidays with the Sip and Savor Pass—available for purchase to all Guests! The pass provides 4 or 8 digital coupons that you can redeem for select food and nonalcoholic beverages at participating Festive Foods Marketplace kiosks and dining locations.
Important Information from the Disneyland Resort website:
2024 Sip and Savor Passes expire January 6, 2025, and digital coupons may not be redeemed at any other event.
Valid Magic Key pass and photo ID must be shown upon purchase of the Sip and Savor Pass to receive the special price and lanyard.
One digital coupon may be redeemed for one eligible food or nonalcoholic beverage item at a participating Festival Marketplace or dining location.
Excludes souvenir items.
Applicable taxes included.
Only one Sip and Savor Pass can be used in a single transaction.
No photocopies or reproductions will be accepted.
To redeem a digital coupon, present the Sip and Savor Pass to a Cast Member at a participating Festival Marketplace or dining location.
Then, enter the 4-digit code located on the pass at checkout. The remaining number of digital coupons on the pass will be printed on the receipt.
You may also ask a Cast Member at any Festival Marketplace to scan the Sip and Savor Pass to confirm the number of digital coupons remaining on the pass.
Eligible Sip and Savor Pass items at participating restaurants are tasting-size portions only, not full entrée offerings.
Sip and Savor Passes and digital coupons will not be replaced if lost, stolen, damaged or expired. Sip and Savor Passes and digital coupons are nonrefundable, nontransferable and may not be redeemed for cash, in whole or in part, and are void if sold or transferred for a commercial purpose.
No substitutions or change will be given.Valid admission and park reservation for Disney California Adventure Park required.
Sip and Savor Pass, its digital coupons, food and beverage offerings, participating marketplace locations and participating dining locations are all subject to availability, restrictions and change or cancellation without notice. Other restrictions may apply.
Alcoholic Beverages
Special Seasonal Experience
Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail is a delightful holiday adventure that you won’t want to miss! From November 22, 2024, through January 1, 2025, join the mischievous duo in the Downtown Disney District for a festive scavenger hunt. Pick up a map and stickers for $9.99 plus tax at select locations, then embark on a quest to find hidden Disney character-themed ornaments on holiday trees scattered throughout the area. Once you’ve spotted the ornaments and placed the corresponding stickers on your map, return it to one of the redemption locations to receive a charming holiday keepsake. It’s a perfect way for the whole family to get into the holiday spirit and take home a special memory from your visit!
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