The holidays are the happiest time of year for many, so it makes sense that “The Happiest Place On Earth” would offer a fantastic experience then. It’s true: The Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, comes alive with the spirit of the holidays, making it a perfect time to visit this iconic vacation destination. Guests will enjoy a dazzling array of decorations, special events, and holiday food and drink, all working together to create a truly magical experience. Here is everything that you need to know about making the most out of a holiday trip to the happiest place on earth:
Holidays at Disneyland Resort Details
It doesn’t matter if you visit the Disneyland Park, California Adventure Park, or Downtown Disney; you will be overwhelmed in the best possible way by all of the festivity of the holiday celebrations. All of the fun kicks off on November 8 and continues through January 6, giving you plenty of time to revel in the holiday festivities. Visitors during this time will enjoy a myriad of special parades, nighttime shows, and more. All of the festive fun happens under the shadow of the most spectacular holiday decorations on the planet.
Disneyland Park Special Events
Some of your favorite rides at Disneyland get in the holiday spirit with specially designed seasonal overlays. The Haunted Mansion Holiday and the It’s a Small World Holiday are just a few of the highlights of a trip to Disneyland. Do not miss the Christmas Fantasy Parade winding its way and spreading cheer down Main Street USA with toy soldiers, dancing gingerbread cookies, Santa Claus, and all of your favorite Disney characters. The Believe in Holiday Magic fireworks show is the ideal end to your day, featuring Disney Christmas music and snow.
California Adventure Park Special Events
California Adventure Park is the home to the Disney Festival of Holidays, celebrating the season from all around the world with a bevy of food offerings and cultural entertainment. The Disney Viva Navidad Street Party features giant puppets, musicians, and more. Carsland gets in the spirit with special seasonal themes with Mater’s Jingle Jamboree and Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl rides. Cap your day off with the nightly lighting of the Buena Vista Street Holiday Tree. Visitors can even meet Santa Claus and his elves at the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail.
Where to Stay
There is a host of hotels near Disneyland that make it easy to capture the joy of this season. The Hyatt House Cypress/Anaheim is the perfect home base for your seasonal adventure, offering extended-stay suites, a heated outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, and close proximity to the magic of Disney. The free breakfast makes it easy to fuel up for your day of merriment. Or choose the Candy Cane Inn, with its complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast, and shuttle to the parks. This boutique hotel prides itself on being a great complement to a Disney vacation.
Yuletide Cheer Eats and Drinks
One of the best parts about visiting Disneyland during the holidays is all of the festive food and drink offerings. The Festive Foods Marketplace in California Adventure Park is a great place to indulge in the best tastes of the season with a myriad of exclusive menu items from 12 diverse booths. For an elegant holiday dining experience, check out the Carthay Circle restaurant, conveniently located in the California Adventure Park. This upscale restaurant features the signature fried biscuits, sustainable fish, filet mignon, and more.
