8 Magical Ways To Experience Christmas At Disneyland 2024

Christmas is a magical time of the year, and Disneyland is the perfect place to experience the holiday season. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations, special events, and beloved characters dressed in their holiday finest. If you're planning a trip to Disneyland in 2024, here are eight magical ways to experience Christmas at the Happiest Place on Earth.

The holiday season is a special time of year at Disneyland, with festivities typically kicking off in mid-November and running through early January. During this time, the park is filled with holiday cheer, from the snow-capped rooftops of Main Street USA to the festive decorations throughout the different lands. Whether you're a kid or a kid-at-heart, Disneyland is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.

1. Disney Christmas Parade

One of the highlights of the holiday season at Disneyland is the Disney Christmas Parade. This festive procession features all of your favorite Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Santa Claus, all dressed in their holiday finest. The parade also includes festive music, elaborate floats, and even a few special effects to make the experience even more magical.

The Disney Christmas Parade typically runs several times a day throughout the holiday season, and it's a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Be sure to check the park schedule to catch a showing, and consider arriving early to grab a spot along the parade route.

Parade Schedule

Showtimes vary throughout the day, but the parade typically runs at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 4:00 PM.
Check the park schedule for exact showtimes and to plan your day accordingly.

2. Haunted Mansion Holiday

The Haunted Mansion is a classic Disneyland attraction, and during the holiday season, it gets a special makeover. Haunted Mansion Holiday features the beloved characters from "The Nightmare Before Christmas," including Jack Skellington and Sally, in a spooky-ooky celebration of the holiday season.

The attraction features all of the same scenes and characters as the regular Haunted Mansion, but with a holiday twist. The special effects, decorations, and even the ghosts themselves are all decked out in holiday finery, making for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Ride Details

Location: New Orleans Square
Height Restriction: 40 inches
Ride Duration: Approximately 8 minutes

3. "Believe...in Holiday Magic" Fireworks

Disneyland's fireworks displays are always a highlight of any visit, and during the holiday season, the park offers a special show called "Believe...in Holiday Magic." This festive display features all of the classic fireworks effects, including bursts of color, patterns, and even a few special surprises.

The show is set to a medley of holiday music, and it's a great way to cap off a day at the park. Be sure to grab a spot in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle or on Main Street USA to get the best view of the show.

Show Schedule

Showtimes vary throughout the night, but the fireworks typically run at 8:30 PM and 10:30 PM.
Check the park schedule for exact showtimes and to plan your day accordingly.

4. Disney Characters in Holiday Attire

One of the best things about visiting Disneyland during the holiday season is seeing all of your favorite characters dressed in their holiday finest. From Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse to Disney Princesses and even the villains, all of the characters are decked out in festive attire.

You can meet the characters throughout the park, and they're all happy to pose for photos and sign autographs. Be sure to check the park schedule to see where and when your favorite characters will be appearing.

Character Meet-and-Greets

Locations vary throughout the park, but characters can typically be found in Fantasyland, Mickey's Toontown, and on Main Street USA.
Check the park schedule for exact meet-and-greet times and locations.

5. Special Holiday Treats

Disneyland is known for its delicious treats, and during the holiday season, the park offers a variety of special holiday goodies. From gingerbread cookies and hot chocolate to festive ice cream flavors and holiday-themed cupcakes, there's something for every sweet tooth.

Be sure to check out the holiday treat carts and shops throughout the park to see what special goodies are available. And don't forget to try some of the park's classic treats, like the famous Disneyland churros and Dole Whip.

Holiday Treats

Locations vary throughout the park, but treat carts and shops can typically be found on Main Street USA and in the different lands.
Check the park schedule for exact treat locations and availability.

6. Sleeping Beauty Castle Holiday Decorations

Sleeping Beauty Castle is always a highlight of any Disneyland visit, and during the holiday season, it's transformed into a winter wonderland. The castle is decked out in festive decorations, including icicles, garlands, and even a few snowflakes.

Be sure to check out the castle's holiday decorations, and consider visiting at night when the castle is lit up in all its festive glory.

Castle Details

Location: Fantasyland
Height Restriction: None
Castle Hours: The castle is open throughout the day, but it's best to visit at night when it's lit up.

Sleeping Beauty Castle Holiday Decorations

7. It's a Small World Holiday

It's a Small World is a classic Disneyland attraction, and during the holiday season, it gets a special makeover. The ride features all of the same scenes and characters as the regular It's a Small World, but with a holiday twist.

The attraction is decked out in festive decorations, and the dolls are all dressed in their holiday finest. The ride's iconic theme song is also given a holiday makeover, with a special holiday version playing throughout the attraction.

Ride Details

Location: Fantasyland
Height Restriction: None
Ride Duration: Approximately 10 minutes

8. Disney Christmas Shop

If you're looking for a special holiday souvenir, be sure to check out the Disney Christmas Shop. This festive shop is located on Main Street USA and features a variety of holiday-themed goodies, including decorations, ornaments, and even a few exclusive Disney items.

Be sure to check out the shop's holiday selection, and consider visiting early in the season to avoid the crowds.

Shop Details

Location: Main Street USA
Hours: The shop is open throughout the day, but it's best to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.

We hope this guide has helped you plan your holiday visit to Disneyland. Whether you're a kid or a kid-at-heart, the park is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit. With its festive decorations, special events, and beloved characters, Disneyland is a holiday destination like no other.

Don't forget to check out our other Disneyland guides for more tips and tricks on how to make the most of your visit. And be sure to share your holiday Disneyland photos with us on social media using the hashtag #DisneylandHolidayMagic.

What are the dates for the Disneyland holiday season?

The Disneyland holiday season typically runs from mid-November to early January.

What are some of the special holiday events and attractions at Disneyland?

Some of the special holiday events and attractions at Disneyland include the Disney Christmas Parade, Haunted Mansion Holiday, "Believe...in Holiday Magic" Fireworks, and It's a Small World Holiday.

Can I meet Disney characters in their holiday attire?

Yes, many Disney characters can be met in their holiday attire throughout the park. Check the park schedule for exact meet-and-greet times and locations.