The leaves haven’t even started changing yet (not that they ever really do in Anaheim), but all eyes are already turning to the holiday season at the Disneyland Resort. I personally absolutely LOVE the holidays at Disneyland, even with all the crowds. This year’s festivities run November 14 through January 7.
Source: Disneyland Resort
THE BEST DECOR SPOTS
Most areas in the resort have at least some decorations throughout the season, but a few areas really go all out. These are my favorite spots for decor, each uniquely themed to its land/area!
Disneyland
California Adventure
Downtown Disney & Resort Hotels
Source: Disneyland Resort
ATTRACTION THAT GET INTO THE SPIRIT
Across the resort, five attractions transform with special holiday overlays:
- Haunted Mansion Holiday– This one carries over from Halloween. Jack Skellington & his friends have taken over the mansion, storing presents and prepping for Sandy Claws’ frightfully fun Christmas Eve journey.
- It’s A Small World Holiday– The whole world has reason to celebrate this holiday season. Take a cruise through a global celebration and enjoy the attraction’s beautiful holiday lighting and décor on the façade.
- Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl– Bon Natale! Cars Land’s resident Italian celebrates Christmas in style. Join Luigi for special dances, to some of his favorite car-sung covers of holiday classics.
- Mater’s Jingle Jamboree– Mater agrees; it’s the most wonderful time of the year. Enjoy his festive soundtrack and a few worn decorations in his junkyard.
- World of Color– Bright lights, cheery music. Join Mickey and his friends as they celebrate the season of light with a spectacular nighttime show.
Source: Disneyland Resort
FESTIVITIES TO ENJOY BETWEEN RIDES
In addition to the overlays and tinsel hung around the resort, both parks host special entertainment throughout the season. These events happen during normal park hours, and do not require any additional reservations/purchase aside from your regular park ticket.
- Festival of the Holidays – a food festival including live performances, character meet and greets, and activity stations.
- Holiday Fun with Santa & Friends – head over to the Fantasyland Theater to spend time with Santa and participate in rotating activities, including sing-alongside, craft stations, readings of A Christmas Carol, live performances from the Dickens Yuletide Band, photo stations, and screenings of animated shorts.
- Viva Navidad – a street party in Paradise Gardens Park with folklórico and samba dancers and a special celebration on Three Kings Day (January 6).
- Christmas Fantasy parade – Dance alongside reindeer, toy soldiers, the princesses, Mickey, Minnie, and Santa as they parade down Main Street.
- Believe…in Holiday Magic fireworks – The fireworks you know and love…with 80,000 twinkling lights and magical snowfall.
A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS
Given how beautiful the holiday decor is, I always find myself spending extra time just walking around and admiring the park’s little details. Here are a few of my favorite things to see/do during the season:
- Magic snow – Head over to Grizzly Peak, along the walkway by the entrance to the Grizzly River Run. Stay close to the lanterns – they periodically (I believe every 30 minutes or so?) release mini flurries of magical snow.
- Trader Sam’s – Everyone’s favorite tiki bar usually has a few special holiday drinks to try! Definitely a must-do for anyone that likes peppermint.
- Hidden path to Fantasyland – This walkway is always one of my favorites, but it’s extra special when you get a close-up view of the castle’s spectacular decorations.
Source: Disneyland Resort
For more information about Disneyland’s Holiday Season 2025 offerings, visit the official event page here.