Menu

Disney Christmas 2024 Ride Closures: What To Expect

Disney characters, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Donald and Daisy Duck, are dressed in festive outfits for Disneyland Merriest Nites, posing in front of an illuminated castle at night with holiday decorations adorning the scene.
Credit: Disney

Several attractions are closing ahead of the holiday season at Disneyland.

A whimsical image of a large, cartoonish whale with an open mouth, serving as an entrance to a ride in a theme park, surrounded by manicured greenery and a small water canal under a clear sky.

Credit: Disney

Related: Mickey Mouse Fans Rejoice as New Disney Loungefly Debuts at EPCOT

As the holiday season descends upon Disneyland, guests should be prepared for a few temporary closures that will affect their visit. Among the most notable attractions facing seasonal refurbishments are the Storybook Land Canal Boats and the Casey Jr. Circus Train. From December 2nd to December 5th, the Storybook Land Canal Boats will be out of service, while the Casey Jr. Circus Train will be closed from December 2nd to December 6th. These brief closures allow the park to ensure that the rides remain safe and enjoyable for all.

Additionally, the much-loved nighttime spectacular, “Fantasmic,” will have several dark dates throughout December. The show will not take place on weekdays, specifically on December 2-5, December 9-12, December 16-19, and December 31, except for the week of Christmas. Guests hoping to catch this enchanting performance should plan accordingly.

In addition to the seasonal closures, there are ongoing refurbishments affecting other rides within the park. The Little Mermaid — Ariel’s Undersea Adventure is set to reopen on November 30, following a month-long refurbishment that will bring new life to this captivating ride. Meanwhile, the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, known for its thrilling cowboy-themed adventure, will be back in action by December 13, following its own month of upgrades.

Another point of concern for those hoping to meet Tinker Bell is the Pixie Hollow meet-and-greet area, which has been closed since September for renovations. Unfortunately, this attraction is not expected to reopen until early January, meaning guests will need to find other magical experiences in the meantime.

big thunder mountain railroad at magic kingdom

Credit: Disney

Related: ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ Star Opens up About Leaving Franchise Forever

Disneyland is also preparing for some long-term closures. The beloved “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” show has not graced the stage since April and will remain closed until 2025, coinciding with Disneyland’s 70th anniversary celebrations. The closure will allow for updates and enhancements that are sure to delight fans of Disney history.

As for the Hyperion Theater and the Fantasyland Theatre, both remain dark, with no upcoming shows currently scheduled.
However, there is great anticipation for future performances and experiences, particularly with the new animatronic show, “Walt Disney – A Magical Life,” debuting in 2025. This new refurbishment promises to become a highlight when showcased alongside the eventual return of “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.”

A nighttime view of a brightly illuminated castle adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The castle's turrets are outlined with lights, and garlands with ornaments hang in the foreground. Two lit torches stand on either side of the entrance, capturing the magic of Christmas at Disneyland.

Credit: Disney

Related: Discover the Forgotten Secret Episode of ‘The Office’ (US)

Despite the ride closures, guests visiting Disneyland during the holiday season can enjoy a range of special activities designed to enhance their experience. The Fantasyland Theatre has transformed into a hub for character meet-and-greets, where visitors can capture memorable moments with their favorite Disney characters. Additionally, the theater will host a variety of holiday-themed crafts and storytelling events, allowing families to engage in festive activities while waiting for ride reopenings.

The Christmas season in Disneyland offers unique experiences that should not be missed. From the dazzling decorations throughout the park to the enchanting atmosphere created by seasonal events, visitors will find plenty of joy and magic during their visit. While some attractions may be temporarily closed, the holiday spirit remains vibrant, ensuring that everyone can make lasting memories this December.

About Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.