The hauntingly delightful “Grim Grinning Ghosts” lyrics have been a signature part of Disney’s iconic Haunted Mansion, a beloved attraction that has captured the imaginations of fans for decades.
At both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World, this eerie ride features 999 happy haunts—but there’s always room for one more. And while the rides at Disneyland Park and the Magic Kingdom are incredibly similar, there are some striking differences between the two.
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A Beloved Tradition with Divided Opinions
For years, Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion has undergone an annual Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) transformation, bringing Jack Skellington and his Halloweentown friends into the spooky mansion. The overlay combines Halloween and Christmas themes, offering a unique twist that has become a holiday tradition.
Fans eager to experience the original Haunted Mansion attraction must plan their visits carefully, as the seasonal version takes over from late summer through the holiday season.
The transformation isn’t without controversy. While some guests love the festive decor and whimsical charm of Haunted Mansion Holiday, others argue it detracts from the classic spooky atmosphere of the original ride. As one fan shared on social media:
“Not attacking the messenger but. The original Haunted is WAY better for Halloween than NBC overlay 😑”
Not attacking the messenger but. The original Haunted is WAY better for halloween than NBC overlay 😑 pic.twitter.com/XjhXZ7LJWn
— Scuba Steve (@ScubaStark_) January 7, 2025
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Confusion over Opening Dates
Earlier in January 2025, Disneyland’s website caused a stir among fans when it indicated the Haunted Mansion would remain in its original form through Halloween, with the overlay returning only in mid-November. This sparked excitement among enthusiasts of the original ride, but the celebration was short-lived.
Scott Gustin, a trusted Disney reporter, clarified the situation on Twitter:
“Update: Disneyland officials say Haunted Mansion Holiday will be open for the start of Halloween Time on Aug. 22 at Disneyland Resort. The incorrect dates published on the Disneyland website earlier today are being updated.”
This correction dashed hopes for fans of the original version, who were anticipating a longer run before the overlay’s return.
Balancing Nostalgia and Festivity
For many Disney enthusiasts, the Haunted Mansion is synonymous with the Halloween season, and the debate between preserving its traditional spooky charm versus embracing the festive overlay remains heated.
However, the overlay’s popularity cannot be denied, with crowds flocking to experience the unique combination of Halloween and Christmas each year.
Looking Ahead to Haunted Mansion Holiday
Despite the mixed reactions, the return of Haunted Mansion Holiday offers something special for Disney fans. Running from August 22 through January 7, the overlay ensures that visitors during both Halloween and Christmas seasons have a chance to experience its unique magic.
What are your thoughts on Haunted Mansion Holiday? Do you prefer the original version, or are you excited to see Jack Skellington and his friends take over? Let us know in the comments!
