The Ultimate Guide to Holidays at Disneyland 2025–2026!
- Angela Cantoni
- Oct 11
- 5 min read
Experience the Magic: What Makes Disneyland at the Holidays So Special?
If your family has never experienced the holidays at Disneyland Resort, get ready for pure magic sprinkled with pixie dust and just the right amount of snow. From November 14, 2025, through January 7, 2026, both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park transform into a winter wonderland full of twinkling lights, cozy treats, festive music, and magical experiences for all ages.
And this year? It’s even more special because it overlaps with Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary celebration—so expect extra sparkle, surprises, and character costume changes!
Key Dates for Holidays at Disneyland 2025–2026
When Does the Holiday Season Begin and End?
Mark your calendars! The merriment runs from November 14, 2025, to January 7, 2026.
Best Times to Visit (and Avoid Crowds)
If you’re not a fan of shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, aim for weekdays in early December or the first week of January. Avoid the Thanksgiving weekend, Christmas through New Year’s Eve, and weekends in general unless you’re okay with longer wait times.
What’s New This Year?
Holiday Cheer Meets the 70th Anniversary Celebration
This isn’t just your standard holiday season. Disneyland is also celebrating 70 magical years, which means you’ll notice exclusive decor, entertainment overlays, and limited-time magic woven into every corner of the park.
Mickey & Friends Debut New Festive Looks
Mickey, Minnie, and their pals are rocking brand-new holiday versions of their 70th celebration attire! Keep an eye out for their twinkly costumes during meet-and-greets and in the parade.
Must-See Attractions at Disneyland Park
“it’s a small world” Holiday + Tapestry of Happiness Projections
This beloved ride is transformed into a global celebration of holiday cheer. Outside, you’ll find dazzling projection shows, including the new “Tapestry of Happiness”, a beautiful visual tribute for the 70th anniversary.
A Christmas Fantasy Parade – Holiday Joy Marches On
Float after float of toy soldiers, dancing reindeer, and Santa himself gliding down Main Street U.S.A.? Yes, please! Arrive early for a front-row view or grab a snack and enjoy the magic as it passes by.
Haunted Mansion Holiday – A Jack Skellington Takeover
Jack and the crew from The Nightmare Before Christmas have completely decked the halls. It’s spooky-meets-festive, and it’s a can’t-miss seasonal overlay.
“Believe…In Holiday Magic” Fireworks & Castle Snowfall
Nothing screams holiday spirit like fireworks, stirring music, and gentle snowfall over Sleeping Beauty Castle. It’s one of those pinch-me moments.
Wintertime Enchantment at Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle
Each evening, the castle glimmers with icy lights, complete with magical snowfall and festive music. It’s like stepping into a snow globe!
Holiday Happenings in Disney California Adventure Park
Disney Festival of Holidays – A Cultural Holiday Celebration
This vibrant festival celebrates Christmas, Navidad, Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa, and more. Think live entertainment, cultural performances, and kid-friendly crafts.
Foodie Must-Try: Festive Foods Marketplace + Sip & Savor Pass
Bring your appetite! Grab a Sip & Savor Pass and sample global holiday dishes, from pork belly adobo to peppermint churros. Yes, it’s a thing, and it’s glorious.
Disney ¡Viva Navidad! – Fiesta Fun for Everyone
This festive street party features The Three Caballeros, Latin-inspired music and dance, and colorful decorations that bring the spirit of Navidad to life.
Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl & Mater’s Jingle Jamboree
These Cars Land rides get a seasonal overlay with twinkly lights, holiday tunes, and extra jingle. Great fun for the little ones!
Downtown Disney Holiday Fun
Chip & Dale’s Ornament Trail – A Festive Scavenger Hunt
This cute, free activity turns your Downtown Disney stroll into a holiday adventure. Search for ornaments hidden throughout the area—and let your kids lead the way!
Holiday Shopping & Seasonal Snacks
Stop at World of Disney or Emporium for limited-edition holiday merch, or fuel up with hot cocoa and Mickey-shaped gingerbread cookies from seasonal carts.
Magical Moments with Santa & Disney Friends
Where to Meet Santa at Disneyland Resort
Santa Claus is popping up around the parks until December 24, so bring your wishlist and your camera. He’s usually spotted in Critter Country and Redwood Creek Challenge Trail.
Characters in Holiday Attire – Photo Opportunities Galore
Don’t forget your autograph book! Characters across the parks will be donning holiday looks, perfect for those magical family selfies.
Take a Holiday Tour: Disneyland Resort Home for the Holidays
Want a little Disney holiday history? Book the “Home for the Holidays” guided tour and enjoy insider stories, favorite traditions, and even reserved viewing for seasonal entertainment. A fab option if you’re looking for something unique.
Insider Tips for Visiting with Kids
What to Pack (And What to Skip)
Think layers! Mornings and evenings get chilly. Bring glow sticks, small toys for lines, and a power bank. Skip: heavy coats and anything that’ll weigh down your stroller.
Stroller Tips, Quiet Spaces & Break Zones
Best break zones: Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, Toon Town benches, Baby Care Centers, and the Animation Building in DCA (hello, A/C!).
Sample 1-Day and 2-Day Holiday Itinerary for Families
Sample 1-Day Itinerary: Disneyland Only
Rope drop: Haunted Mansion Holiday
Midday: “it’s a small world” + parade spot staked out by 2 PM
Evening: Castle lighting + fireworks
Sample 2-Day Itinerary: Disneyland + DCA
Day 1: Disneyland classics + parade + fireworks
Day 2: DCA for Festival of Holidays, ¡Viva Navidad!, and Cars Land rides
Dining & Treats You Can’t Miss
Where to Eat Festive Feasts
Reserve Storytellers Café or Plaza Inn for holiday meals. Don’t forget mobile order for snacks like gingerbread Mickeys, peppermint churros, and holiday-themed beignets.
Holiday Snacks & Sweets Around the Resort
Try the Braised Pork Belly Adobo, Mexican hot chocolate, and Yule log cake slices from Festival booths.
Shopping for the Perfect Disney Gift
Mickey Mouse Family Christmas Collection
Matching family PJs? Holiday mugs? Yes, and yes! This collection is available while supplies last, so shop early.
Where to Find Limited-Time Holiday Merchandise
Head to World of Disney, Emporium, and Elias & Co.—stock goes fast!
Making the Most of Your Holiday Budget
Where to Save, Splurge & Score Freebies
Save: Use the Sip & Savor Pass for meals
Splurge: The guided tour is worth it
Freebies: Ornament Trail maps, seasonal stickers, character hugs
Wrap-Up: Create Lasting Memories This Holiday Season
The holidays at Disneyland aren’t just about rides and shows—they’re about laughter echoing on Main Street, snowflakes falling in front of the castle, and memories that will stick with your kids forever. So bundle up, sip that cocoa, and get ready for a trip filled with pixie dust and heartwarming magic.
FAQs About Holidays at Disneyland Resort
1. Do I need a separate ticket for holiday events?
Nope! All holiday festivities are included with standard park admission.
2. Is it worth visiting both parks?
Absolutely. Each park has its own unique holiday magic—DCA has the food fest; Disneyland has the classic parade and castle snow!
3. Can I bring my own snacks and water?
Yes! You can save a lot by packing water bottles and light snacks for the kids.
4. Are Genie+ and Lightning Lane useful during the holidays?
Yes, especially during peak weeks! Consider it if you're visiting close to Christmas.
5. Is there a best day of the week to go?
Tuesdays and Wednesdays in early December are generally the quietest.
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