Christmas at Disneyland: 2024 In-Depth Guide

Dust off your Mickey’s ears and prepare for a holiday transformation like no other! Disneyland Resort is ditching the pumpkins and decking the halls for a festive season filled with heartwarming cheer and magical surprises. From twinkling lights and snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A. to special character appearances and a brand-new fireworks spectacular, this isn’t your average Christmas celebration.

Get ready to experience the unique blend of Disney magic and holiday traditions that will make this a season to remember!

Christmas Time at Disneyland Date and Time

Wondering when does Christmas start at Disneyland? We’ve got the answer! Embrace the enchantment of the holiday season as Disneyland Resort casts its spell of festive cheer! The magic begins to sparkle on November 15, 2024, transforming the park into a winter wonderland.

When is the last day for Christmas decorations at Disneyland? While the final curtain call on this year’s merriment remains a mystery, rumors whisper that the enchantment will linger even after the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve.

Check back for updates on “When does Christmas end at Disneyland.” Is Disneyland open on Christmas Day? Yes, Disneyland is open on Christmas Day. In fact, it’s open every day of the year! Christmas is a particularly popular time to visit, so expect larger crowds and longer wait times for attractions. If you plan on going on Christmas Day, make sure to book your tickets and make park reservations well in advance.

We recommend checking the Disneyland app for updated Disneyland Christmas dates and opening times.

Location

The Disneyland Christmas Parade and other joyous holiday celebrations with Mickey and the gang will take place at Disneyland Park, Anaheim, CA 92802. From the race-centric world of Cars Land to Sleeping Beauty’s iconic Winter Castle.

Christmas Disneyland Tickets

Dreams of sugarplums and festive fun await! Unlock a world of holiday enchantment at the Happiest Place on Earth with discounted Disneyland tickets from Tripster. Step into a winter wonderland where every corner sparkles with cheer, beloved characters don their festive finest, and heartwarming holiday experiences come to life.

From heartwarming parades and dazzling nighttime spectaculars to whimsical transformations of classic attractions, your ticket grants you access to the full spectrum of Disneyland’s holiday magic.

Don’t miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Let Tripster sprinkle a little extra pixie dust on your holiday season!

Vacation Packages

Oh, the holidays in Los Angeles! Where tinsel twinkles beneath palm trees and dreams shimmer brighter than the Hollywood lights! But why choose between Mickey’s merriment and the city’s vibrant energy when you can have both?

With Tripster’s magical vacation packages, your Disneyland® Resort adventure becomes just the beginning! Bundle your discounted park tickets with admission to LA’s coolest attractions, all for one low price.

Explore movie magic at Universal Studios Hollywood, dive into underwater wonder at the Aquarium of the Pacific, or even soak up the sun at sunny San Diego’s world-famous zoo. Let Tripster weave together your perfect LA holiday tapestry, where every moment is filled with joy, wonder, and a sprinkle of stardust. ✨ Your dream California Christmas awaits!

What to Expect

Immerse yourself in a dazzling display of holiday cheer! This vibrant celebration brings together beloved traditions from around the world. From Christmas carols to Diwali dances, this joyous festival honors the diverse traditions that make the holiday season bright.

Here’s everything you need to know about Christmas in Disneyland.

Believe…In Holiday Magic Fireworks Spectacular

Prepare to be dazzled by a breathtaking pyrotechnical masterpiece! As vibrant colors dance across the night sky, over 80,000 twinkling lights transform Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle into a shimmering vision of snowy splendor.

For an extra touch of enchantment, experience a magical snowfall as you stroll through “it’s a small world” Holiday and parts of Main Street, U.S.A. It’s a truly wondrous way to embrace the holiday spirit!

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Characters in Special Seasonal Attire

‘Tis the season for festive fashion! ✨ Catch Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their pals decked out in their most delightful winter attire as they spread holiday cheer throughout Disneyland Park. Don’t miss this chance to see your favorite characters dressed in their seasonal best!

A Christmas at Disneyland Fantasy Parade

Experience the heartwarming magic of the holidays at Disneyland Park as A Christmas Fantasy Parade sweeps you away into a whimsical winter wonderland. Prancing reindeer, marching holiday toy drummers, and dancing gingerbread cookies will fill your heart with cheer, while beloved Disney characters spread festive joy along the parade route.

Don’t miss these delightful moments:

• Mickey and Minnie, with help from Chip ‘n’ Dale, tackle an avalanche of letters addressed to Santa.
• Anna, Elsa, and Olaf offer a warm winter welcome from their glistening Frozen realm.
• Woody and Buzz reach for the sky atop giant wooden building blocks.
• The Disney Princesses twirl and waltz at the enchanting Candlelight Ball.
• And in the grand finale, wave to the jolly man himself, Santa Claus!

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Insider Tip: Instead of paying for a reserved viewing of a Christmas fantasy parade, you can secure your spot early, especially along Main Street, U.S.A., for the best views of this unforgettable Christmas fantasy!

Disney ¡Viva Navidad!

Join the merriment as Paradise Gardens Park bursts into a joyous street party! Be captivated by the vibrant energy of folklórico dancers, the soulful melodies of mariachis, and the infectious rhythms of Brazilian samba dancers and drummers. Marvel at the towering 12-foot mojiganga puppets of Santa and Mrs. Claus as they spread holiday cheer, and don’t miss a special appearance by Mickey and Minnie in their fiesta best!

Continue the festivities as the Disney Festival of Holidays honors the Epiphany with a touch of Disney magic. Delight in the enchanting Latin American traditions of El Día de los Reyes Magos, creating heartwarming memories for the whole family.

Wintertime Enchantment at Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle

During the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort, Sleeping Beauty Castle undergoes a dazzling makeover and turns into… Disneyland Castle Christmas! Shimmering icicles, festive wreaths, and enchanting décor adorn the iconic landmark, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for your holiday memories.

As evening descends, gather near the castle for a truly breathtaking sight. Watch in awe as thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the castle in stages, accompanied by a snowfall of shimmering flakes and the joyful melodies of the season. It’s a magical moment that captures the true spirit of the holidays.

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Christmas Food at Disneyland

Embark on a culinary adventure through Disney California Adventure Park! The Festive Foods Marketplace invites you to savor a world of delectable possibilities, showcasing cultural celebrations with an array of mouthwatering dishes.

Unlock the ultimate tasting experience with the Sip and Savor Pass, your passport to a world of flavors. This special pass, available for purchase, grants you entitlement tabs to redeem for select food and nonalcoholic beverages at participating Festive Foods Marketplace kiosks and dining locations.

Let your taste buds travel the globe as you celebrate the holiday season in delicious style!

World of Color Season of Light

Prepare to be mesmerized as beloved Disney and Pixar characters illuminate a towering wall of mist. Watch in awe as hundreds of sky-high fountains dance in harmony with festive music, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that’s as enchanting as the holidays themselves. Shimmering snowflakes complete the scene, adding a touch of winter wonderland to your California adventure.

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This heartwarming show seamlessly weaves together classic films like Cinderella, Lady and the Tramp, Beauty and the Beast, Toy Story, and Fantasia with contemporary favorites like Frozen and Inside Out. Experience the magic of friendship, family, and love come alive in this spectacular celebration of the season.

And don’t forget to keep an eye out for Goofy’s hilarious musical light display! His madcap antics are sure to add an extra dose of laughter and merriment to the festivities.

Disney’s A Small World holiday

Set sail on a festive voyage through a world transformed by holiday cheer! The iconic “it’s a small world” attraction becomes a wondrous wintry waterway, adorned with delightful décor and jubilant regional adornments from across the globe. As you approach, the heartwarming melody of “It’s a Small World (After All)” blends with traditional holiday tunes, setting the stage for a magical experience.

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As twilight descends, gather before the attraction’s iconic façade and witness thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the night. Then, every 30 minutes, a captivating light projection show brings the façade to life with a kaleidoscope of colors and heartwarming holiday images.

This unforgettable nighttime spectacle is the perfect way to embrace the spirit of the season and create cherished memories with loved ones.

Haunted Mansion Holiday

Prepare to be enchanted (and maybe a little spooked!) as the Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington, transforms the Haunted Mansion into a frightfully festive wonderland inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas at Disneyland.

Venture inside and encounter thrilling sights and seasonal surprises, all masterminded by the mischievous citizens of Halloween Town. Sally, Oogie Boogie, and other beloved characters from the film will be there to greet you with a hearty “Season’s Screamings!”

Important Note: The Haunted Mansion Holiday is more popular than ever, so you’ll need to join a virtual queue to enter. While the new stand-by queue isn’t ready yet, the virtual queue ensures that foolish mortals like yourself can still experience the eerie estate while the Disney Imagineers put the finishing touches on the surrounding area.

Mater s Jingle Jamboree

Get ready for a rootin’ tootin’ good time at Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree! Whirl and twirl in a charming little tractor as Mater himself serenades you with classic holiday tunes, sprinkled with his own hilarious tow-riffic twists.

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Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl

Join Luigi and his car-loving cousins for a joyous holiday celebration! Hop into a classic Italian import and get ready to cruise as these charming roadsters dance and twirl to the festive tunes crooned by Luigi himself. This high-energy ride is perfect for kids and tweens looking for a fun and musical experience.

Holiday Shopping at the Disneyland Resort

The holidays aren’t complete without a little bit of shopping, and the Disneyland Resort is a treasure trove of unique and festive finds! Explore the merry shops lining Main Street, U.S.A., where you’ll find ornaments, apparel, and souvenirs to commemorate your magical visit. Don’t miss the Emporium, the largest gift shop in Disneyland Park, offering a vast selection of holiday-themed merchandise.

Venture beyond the parks to discover even more shopping delights at the Downtown Disney District. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of boutiques, specialty shops, and art galleries, each offering their own unique holiday treasures. Keep an eye out for special pop-up shops and festive decorations that add to the merry ambiance.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift for a loved one or a special keepsake for yourself, the Disneyland Resort offers a shopping experience that’s as enchanting as the holiday season itself.

From personalized ornaments and cozy apparel to delicious holiday treats and festive home décor, you’re sure to find something to make your holiday sparkle. Don’t forget to pick up a few souvenirs to share the magic of Disneyland with those back home!

Nearby Holiday Theme Parks

Knott’s Berry Farm’s Merry Farm: Just a short drive from Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm transforms into a winter wonderland during its annual Merry Farm celebration. Delight in the festive atmosphere as the park comes alive with dazzling lights, holiday shows, and cheerful decorations. Meet Snoopy and the Peanuts gang dressed in their holiday best, and don’t miss the enchanting nighttime spectaculars that will leave you feeling merry and bright.

From snow-covered streets and charming carolers to thrilling rides with a festive twist, Knott’s Merry Farm offers a unique holiday experience for the whole family.

SeaWorld San Diego: Experience a splash of holiday cheer at SeaWorld San Diego, where festive fun meets marine life wonder! Immerse yourself in the magic of the season as the park is adorned with twinkling lights and decorations. Delight in special holiday shows featuring playful sea lions, energetic dolphins, and even a visit from Santa himself.

From the festive Sea of Trees lighting up the night to the heartwarming story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer brought to life, SeaWorld offers a truly unique and unforgettable holiday experience.

LEGOLAND California Resort: If you’re looking for holiday cheer, you might consider visiting during their Holidays at LEGOLAND event, which usually takes place from late November to early January. During this time, the park is decorated with festive LEGO creations, and there are special holiday-themed shows and activities.

However, even outside of the specific holiday event, LEGOLAND is a fantastic destination for families, especially those with younger children. The park offers a wide variety of LEGO-themed rides, attractions, and shows that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Tips and Parking

Where to Stay: Calling all Disney dreamers! Tripster is your fairy godmother when it comes to finding the perfect place to stay near the magic. We’ve conjured up some seriously low online rates for hotels near Disneyland, so you can spend more time making memories and less time worrying about transportation.

Imagine waking up just a short stroll or shuttle ride away from the park gates, ready to dive headfirst into the holiday festivities! No more stressing about traffic or expensive rideshares – just pure, unadulterated Disney magic from morning to night!

So, what are you waiting for? ✨ Book your dream stay near Disneyland with Tripster today and let the enchantment begin! ✨

What to Bring: Packing for a magical Disneyland Christmas adventure? California evenings can get surprisingly chilly, especially during the holiday season. Pack a mix of cozy sweaters, festive scarves, and a light jacket or two to stay warm while enjoying the dazzling nighttime spectaculars.

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And don’t forget that you’ll be doing a lot of walking (and maybe even some dancing in the parades!), so make sure your feet are happy in comfortable footwear. Then, get into the spirit with a pair of classic Mickey ears or a fun holiday-themed headband. It’s the perfect way to show your Disney love!

Lastly, do you have Disney pins? Yes, those shiny little treasures! Bring a few Disney trading pins if you’re into that kind of fun. It’s a great way to interact with Cast Members and other guests, plus you might score some unique pins to add to your collection.

Parking: The Mickey & Friends and Pixar Pals parking structures are the closest to the park entrances. However, the Toy Story lot may be a faster option if you don’t mind the short shuttle ride, as it sometimes has less congestion.

Looking for free parking? Unfortunately, Disneyland Resort hotels like the Grand Californian Hotel and hotels near Disneyland do not typically offer free parking. Many hotels charge a daily parking fee, which can range from $15-$35 or more. Disneyland’s preferred parking costs $55. Parking fees could increase during the dates for Christmas at Disneyland.

Make Holiday Memories at Disneyland Park

As the final notes of the fireworks fade and the last snowfall settles on Main Street, U.S.A., your heart will be overflowing with the spirit of the season. Disneyland’s holiday transformation is a true testament to the magic and wonder that only Disney can create.

From the dazzling lights and festive decorations to the heartwarming entertainment and delicious treats, every moment is designed to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

So, gather your loved ones, embrace the holiday spirit, and let Disneyland be your guide to a truly unforgettable Christmas celebration. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, the magic of the holidays at the Happiest Place on Earth is sure to leave you feeling merry and bright.

Experience the magic of Christmas at Disneyland. Purchase discount tickets while they last.