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Alert: Disneyland Begins Christmas Celebrations Mid-October

Disneyland Christmas
Credit: Disney

Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Resort is currently adorned with a whimsical covering of snow, signaling an early arrival of the holiday season.

haunted mansion holiday closing overlay disneyland dates nightmare before christmas theme

Credit: Disney

While Halloween celebrations are still ongoing at Disneyland and neighboring Disney California Adventure, the presence of snow on the castle turrets has elicited varied reactions among guests.

Many are surprised to see Christmas decorations before Halloween has ended, leading to a mix of excitement and discontent. Some visitors have expressed their views on social media, stating that the decorations appear too soon, while others appreciate the festive spirit it brings to the park.

Matt Desmond shared the first sight of Christmas yesterday on X with the post below.

“There is SNOW on Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland”

This early snow coverage showcases Disneyland’s intention to smoothly transition from Halloween to Christmas festivities. With the arrival of the holiday season, guests can expect an enchanting atmosphere as the park prepares for one of its busiest times of the year, traditionally characterized by vibrant decorations and joyful celebrations.

Holiday Season Commencement

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

Disneyland’s 2024 holiday season will officially commence on November 15 and run through January 6, 2025. This period promises a lineup of beloved traditional events and new experiences designed to enchant visitors. Key highlights of the holiday celebrations include the spectacular “Believe… in Holiday Magic” fireworks show, a centerpiece of the holiday theme that delights guests each evening.

Additionally, Mickey and Minnie Mouse will be debuting charming new holiday outfits inspired by nostalgic traditions of sending handwritten letters to loved ones. These outfits are set to add a touch of classic charm to the festivities, appealing to guests of all ages.

Special Attractions and Events

Disneyland Cars Land Christmas Holidays

Credit: Disney

The holiday season at Disneyland Resort is renowned for its special attractions and events. Among the returning favorites are “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday, both of which receive seasonal overlays that transform them into festive experiences. “it’s a small world” is adorned with thousands of lights, creating a captivating display that reflects various global traditions.
Similarly, the Haunted Mansion undergoes a thematic overhaul, incorporating elements from The Nightmare Before Christmas, creating a delightful and spooky celebration.

In addition to these fan-favorite attractions, Santa Claus will also be making appearances at the Fantasyland Theatre, engaging guests in seasonal activities such as cookie decorating, crafts, and storytelling. For those visiting Disney California Adventure, the Festival of Holidays and ¡Viva Navidad! events promise an array of culinary delights and cultural celebrations, highlighting diverse holiday traditions through festive food and performances.

Hotel Discounts and Tips

Disneyland Christmas

Credit: Disney

As holiday planning commences, Disneyland Resort has introduced new hotel discounts for the period from October to December 2024. General discounts of up to 15% are available, with additional savings for Disney Visa cardholders and Magic Key Annual Passholders, providing incentives for guests to book their stays during this festive time.

Maximizing your time and avoiding crowds during the holiday season at Disneyland can make your visit much more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you navigate the park and make the most of your experience:

  • Use MagicBand+: Stay off your phone and save time by using MagicBand+, which lets you interact with nighttime entertainment, certain rides, smaller shows, and even snowfall. It also makes park hopping faster and easier.
  • Check Park Hours: Be sure to check park hours in advance, as Disney California Adventure may close early (5 p.m.) on select dates for special events.
  • Arrive Early: Arriving before the park opens gives you a head start on rides with shorter wait times. If you’re staying on-site, take advantage of Early Entry for even more access.
  • Dress in Layers: The weather during the holidays can vary, so dressing in layers is essential. Mornings and evenings tend to be cold, while days may warm up.
  • Use Lockers: Renting a locker allows you to store extra clothing, umbrellas, and bulky purchases like popcorn buckets and sippers that you don’t want to carry around.
  • Pack Smart: Bring hats, scarves, thin gloves, and extra layers instead of bulky coats to stay warm and comfortable.
  • Utilize Lightning Lanes: Skip long lines by taking advantage of Lightning Lane passes for select attractions.
  • Mobile Order: Avoid long lines at restaurants by using Mobile Order for quick and easy meal pickups.
  • Make Dining Reservations: Reserve dining options 60 days in advance, or use the Walk-Up list for same-day availability.
  • Plan for Entertainment: Check show times and prioritize must-see entertainment during your visit.
  • Visit During Off-Peak Times: The best time to visit is mid-week in November or early December when crowds are lighter.
  • Add an Extra Day: Extend your stay by an additional day so you can enjoy the holiday food, entertainment, and attractions without feeling rushed.
  • Take Midday Breaks: Plan a break in the middle of the day so you can stay until park closing. The park is stunning at night, and crowds tend to thin out after the fireworks.
  • Plan for Popular Rides Early: Visit Haunted Mansion Holiday or “it’s a small world” Holiday early in the day, or use a Lightning Lane Multi Pass to avoid lines. In 2024, Haunted Mansion Holiday might still require a virtual queue due to ongoing construction.

By following these tips, you can maximize your time at Disneyland and fully enjoy the magic of the holiday season.

However, it is advisable for potential visitors to consider off-site hotel options, particularly during peak seasons when the parks experience larger crowds. Planning ahead is crucial for experiencing all that Disneyland has to offer during the holiday season, as this popular time can lead to longer wait times and fuller schedules. By strategically selecting visit dates and accommodations, guests can create memorable holiday experiences at Disneyland Resort.

Is it too soon to start celebrating Christmas at Disney?

About Alessia Dunn

Orlando theme park lover who loves thrills and theming, with a side of entertainment. You can often catch me at Disney or Universal sipping a cocktail, or crying during Happily Ever After or Fantasmic.

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