The holiday season has transformed Disneyland Resort into a winter wonderland, but the festive cheer has come with a downside: overwhelming crowds. Guests have flocked to the Southern California theme parks to enjoy seasonal favorites, but some are sharing their frustrations online—and even canceling their annual passes.
Unlike Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort doesn’t offer a separately ticketed Christmas party. Nevertheless, Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park shine with holiday magic, including the Festival of Holidays, A Christmas Fantasy Parade, “Believe… In Holiday Magic” fireworks, and World of Color – Season of Light. Limited-time attraction overlays, such as Haunted Mansion Holiday and “it’s a small world” Holiday, draw visitors eager to experience the magic of the season.
Holiday Cheer Meets Holiday Chaos
Despite the magic, the holiday crowds have reached uncomfortable levels, leaving some guests reconsidering their plans. Even with many Magic Key Pass holders blocked out, Disneyland Park is packed with visitors eager to soak in the festivities.
TikToker @nikki.pnw recently posted a video of Main Street, U.S.A., warning others about the holiday madness.
“Your reminder to avoid Disneyland during December if you hate crowds,” the TikToker wrote. “So pretty but the most packed I’ve ever seen it!”
@nikki.pnw So pretty but the most packed ive ever seen it! #disneyland #disneytips #disneylandchristmas #fypシ
The overwhelmed Disney Park guest said the experience had made her question whether to renew her Magic Key Pass.
“I don’t think I’m going to renew my pass when it’s time because the amount of people is insane,” she explained. “I wish they did a better job of trying to keep crowds low.”
Other Disneyland Guests Voice Their Frustrations
@nikki.pnw isn’t alone in her concerns. Other Disney Parks fans flooded the comments with their own experiences, agreeing that crowd levels are at an all-time high.
“Went on Tuesday and it was soo packed never seen it soo packed in a weekday before,” commented @stephanieefaith.
“And if the parade is going….run!” said @beachykeen04.
Some longtime Disneyland Resort fans even admitted to canceling plans to visit, deciding it wasn’t worth the hassle. Others have shifted their strategies, opting to visit Disney California Adventure Park instead.
“I went to DCA on Monday and it was so empty,” said @gwen.pco. “Most waits were under 30 mins (except Cars) because everyone is at Disneyland.”
While some fans are avoiding Disneyland Resort altogether this December, others recommend waiting until after the new year.
“My tip is if you want the holiday season experience with reduced crowds, 1st week of January is the time to go,” shared @addie_1013.
For those still planning a trip this holiday season, arriving early, using Disney Genie+ to manage ride reservations, and splitting time between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park can help make the experience more enjoyable.
Have you visited Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and Downtown Disney District in December? Share your experience with Inside the Magic in the comments.
We went on November 15th which is the first day of the Christmas season. Then again on the 17th. It was great. More people than I expected but then again, it was a Friday and Sunday. We didn’t wait longer than 30 minutes for anything. No need for Genie+. After years of attending during school breaks, we decided that was the best time to visit. We’ve also done after Christmas but there are still a lot of kids out of school.