Disneyland Special Events, Activities & Tours

LAST UPDATE: 7/17/17

Wondering what Disneyland special events may be happening during your visit to Disneyland Resort? Listed below are the major Disneyland events and festivals taking place during the year.

On this page you will also find any deals and discounts available on special activities (spa treatments, movies and more) at Disneyland Resort, as well as how to save money on theme park tours.

This is an UNOFFICIAL listing of Disneyland special events, tours and activities, and while we make our best effort to keep it updated, complete and accurate, Disney changes things constantly. Be sure to call ahead before making any major plans based on the information below!

For recurring events (e.g., Mickey’s Halloween Party, Candlelight Processional) we update new information as it becomes available, but we do not remove the previous year’s information until the new year’s information becomes available. We do this so that you can get a general idea of what has been offered in the past, and the range of dates when it was offered.

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Special Events

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January-March Events

April-June Events

July-September Events

October-December Events

Season of the Force – A Star Wars Experience

These Star Wars themed experiences feature opportunities to meet some of your favorite Star Wars characters, experience an exciting twist on a favorite attraction and more at Disneyland.

Season of the Force began November 16, 2015. An end date has not been announced.

Some of the experiences include:

Star Wars Launch Bay – This area offers opportunities to visit with Star Wars characters, view special exhibits and more. You can also choose your destiny with special character experiences. Choose the Dark Side and you encounter one of the most iconic villains from Star Wars, Darth Vader. Choose the Light Side and you can fly casual at this makeshift Rebel base, and meet the most famous co-pilot in the galaxy, Chewbacca.

Star Tours: The Adventures Continue – This popular attraction features a new scene inspired by Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple – This twist on the Jedi Training experience introduces new characters and a new villain from the popular Disney XD series, Star Wars Rebels.

Hyperspace Mountain – For a limited time, guests join an X-wing starfighter battle in this reimagining of the classic Space Mountain attraction.

Themed Galleries – In the Dark Side Gallery get a look at authentic pieces of stormtrooper armor as well as famous Sith lightsabers once wielded by masters of the dark side. The Light Side Gallery features Rebel flight helmets and lightsabers once wielded by Jedi Knights. In the Preview Gallery you can see props from Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The Starship Gallery displays models of famous starships and their pilots from throughout the Star Wars saga.

Other limited-time experiences include an opportunity to revisit favorite scenes from classic Star Wars films at Tomorrowland Theater as well as special themed food and beverage, merchandise and entertainment.

New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day

Disneyland stays open late on New Year’s Eve and offers extra entertainment, usually including live performances, an extra parade and fireworks. These festivities are included in regular park admission.

If you plan to visit one of the theme parks on New Year’s Eve (December 31) or New Year’s Day (January 1), be aware that these are two of the busiest days of the year. The parks (especially Disneyland) usually reach full capacity at some point during the day, and you may not be admitted (or re-admitted) to the parks after that point. (This is true even if you have a ticket, even if you’re staying at a Disney resort and even if you have dining reservations in the park. If the park is full, it’s full — Disney has to follow fire codes!) For that reason it’s best to arrive first thing in the morning and stay in the same park all day. Bring any sweaters or jackets you may need later and stow them in a locker when you arrive (the lockers will also sell out). Get Fastpasses right away if you think you will want to ride anything, because the lines will be very long by noon.

For New Year’s Eve 2016 several Disney hotels offered a special dinner or party. Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa offered a four-course Wine Country Feast of Winter Season Classics and a New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance Party with live music. Steakhouse 55 in the Disneyland Hotel is serving a three-course dinner on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Disney’s PCH Grill at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will offer a family-friendly New Year’s Eve dinner buffet and party (until 12:30 am), with Disney characters and a balloon drop in the hotel’s Pacific Ballroom.

Día de los Reyes (Three Kings Day)

January 6, Día de los Reyes (Three Kings Day, also known as Epiphany or the Twelfth Day of Christmas), is a popular holiday in Mexico. The holiday celebrates the arrival of the Magi bearing gifts for baby Jesus, and Día de los Reyes is the traditional day for Mexican children to receive Christmas gifts.

In 2017, Disneyland Día de los Reyes was celebrated January 3-6.

The celebration includes entertainment, Disney characters in festive attire, kids’ activities and specialty food items at Rancho del Zocalo and nearby food carts.

Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – The Light Side

The Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – The Light Side includes a 10K, 5K, Kids’ Races and a 13.1-mile run that takes you through Disney California Adventure, past Disneyland, and then on to the streets of surrounding areas. Complete the Star Wars 10K on Saturday and the Star Wars Half Marathon on Sunday to receive the Star Wars Rebel Challenge Finisher Medal in addition to the Half Marathon and 10K Finisher Medals.

Runners who participate in both Star Wars Half Marathon events (the Star Wars Half Marathon at Disneyland and the new Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side at Walt Disney World) will earn the inaugural Kessel Run Challenge medal.

In 2018, the Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – The Light Side will be January 11-14.

Registration for the 2018 Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – The Light Side opened March 14, 2017.

Walt Disney World Annual & Season Passholders, Disneyland Annual Passport holders and DVC members are able to register ahead of the general public for some runDisney events. Check the Annual Passholder or DVC member website for details closer to the public registration date.

Celebrate Gospel

To celebrate Black History Month and the spirit and history of gospel music, Disney California Adventure hosts a one day concert featuring gospel choirs from a variety of communities. Performances take place in Stage 17 in Hollywood Land between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm, and are included with theme park admission.

In 2017, Celebrate Gospel took place February 18.

In 2017, Celebrate Gospel featured the following choirs: Amazing Grace Choir (Los Angeles), Angelic Choir (Los Angeles), Connected (Los Angeles), Divine Deliverance Ministries Mass Choir (Los Angeles), Destiny 24 (Compton), Friendship Mass Choir (Yorba Linda), Greater LA Cathedral Choir (Los Angeles), Jamelle Jones & Freed (Los Angeles), LA Inner City Mass Choir (Los Angeles), Lawyer Turner and the Lawyerettes (Dallas, Texas), Lorenzo Johnson & Praizum (Los Angeles), New Birth (Menifee), New Generation Choir (Santa Ana), TraXX and Christ Side (San Bernardino), Ty Snow & Xtreme Purpose (Pasadena).

Mardi Gras

The New Orleans Square area of Disneyland celebrates Mardi Gras each year. The streets of New Orleans Square will be filled with music, Disney characters, street performers and delicious food at New Orleans Bayou Bash.

In 2018, Mardi Gras will be February 13.

In the past, special entertainment for Mardi Gras has included performances by Princess Tiana, Louis and Naveen and meet & greet opportunities with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald, Goofy, Pluto and Chip ‘n’ Dale – all dressed up in their Mardi Gras finest!

Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year)

The Lunar New Year celebration takes place at Paradise Gardens in Disney California Adventure and includes traditions from Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures. There are performers, musicians, local artisans, kids’ activities and specialty food items. Disney characters are there as well, including Mulan, Mushu, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. Local community groups perform throughout the day.

Each night, before “World of Color,” the Lunar New Year Celebration will culminate in a new six-minute pre-show called “Hurry Home,” presented in water, animation and special effects on Paradise Bay. This story of a Little Lantern on its journey home to join its Lantern family to celebrate Lunar New Year features animated appearances by Mulan and Mushu in “dream sequences” inspired by traditional Chinese paper cut-out style animation.

In 2017, Lunar New Year was celebrated January 20 – February 5.

Easter

In 2018, Easter Sunday will be April 1.

For 2017, Easter Egg Hunts were held daily April 1-16 in Disneyland, Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney. Maps and stickers are available for $5.99 plus tax at select merchandise locations. Return your map to Elias & Co. in Disney California Adventure, Disney Showcase in Disneyland or World of Disney Store in the Downtown Disney District by April 16 to pick up a surprise.

New for 2017, on Easter Sunday, young Disneyland Resort hotel guests could participate in an Easter egg hunt on the Adventure Lawn at the Disneyland Hotel from 8 am to 11 am. Space is limited, guests are encouraged to sign up with Hotel Guest Services.

In 2017, there were several new Easter dining options. Easter Classic Tea was available at Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel on weekends, March 31-April 2, April 7-9 and 14-16. On Easter Sunday there were two character dining options: Storytellers Café at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa offered an all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet with characters and Disney’s PCH Grill at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel offered character dining during Easter Brunch and dinner.

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival

This month-long festival celebrates some of the best of California cuisine. Festival Marketplace Kiosks offer California-inspired small plates and beverages at over a dozen different venue. There are Lifestyle Seminars with 20- to 30-minute presentations on a variety of lifestyle topics and live art demonstrations. Kids ages 3-11 can participate in a complementary, hands-on experience called Jr. Chef.

In 2017, the Disney California Food & Wine Festival was March 10 – April 16.

Premium events & experiences such as “In the Kitchen with…”, Sweet Sundays, Winemaker Dinners, Brewmaster Beer Dinners and other special beverage and culinary programs require reservations and payment of an additional fee over and above park admission. Space is limited for all ticketed events and advance reservations are recommended. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable.

  • The first set of premium event tickets for the 2017 Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival went on sale February 1, 2017. Additional premium event tickets will become available 60 days prior to each event’s date. Tickets available on the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival site or call (714) 781-3463 to book. Please note: admission to Disney California Adventure is required and is not included in the price.

Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend

The Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend events include a 10K, Family 5K, Kids’ Races and a 13.1-mile run that takes you through Disneyland. Anyone who completes both the Disney Princess Half Marathon in February at Walt Disney World and the Tinker Bell Half Marathon in May at Disneyland in 2015 will earn a special pink version of the runDisney Coast to Coast Race Challenge Medal.

In 2018, the Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend will be May 10-13.

Registration for the 2018 Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend opened June 27, 2017.

Walt Disney World Annual & Season Passholders, Disneyland Annual Passport holders and DVC members are able to register ahead of the general public for some runDisney events. Check the Annual Passholder or DVC member website for details closer to the public registration date.

Mother’s Day

On Mother’s Day, the second Sunday in May, Blue Bayou Restaurant and Carnation Cafe have offered special meals.

In 2018, Mother’s Day is May 13.

New for 2017, the Classic Afternoon Tea at Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel offered Mother’s Day-themed desserts along with the traditional teas, scones, tea sandwiches and more.

Summer of Heroes at Disney California Adventure

New for 2017, Disney California Adventure will celebrate the Summer of Heroes. The action kicks off May 27, with the grand opening of Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!

In 2017, Summer of Heroes will be May 27 – September 10.

For a limited time, enjoy these new activities:

Summer of Heroes will also launch new, year-round experiences:

Independence Day (July 4)

In 2017, Disneyland offered a special fireworks spectacular on July 1-4 at 9:30 pm: Disney’s Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky. On July 4 Disney California Adventure had a special Fourth of July-themed pyrotechnic water display before the 9:00 pm and 10:15 pm showings of World of Color.

In 2017, on June 28 – July 1 the United States Air Force Honor Guard out of Washington, D.C. performed at the following locations:

In 2017, on July 2 the United States Army National Guard Band performed the Disneyland pre-parade at 4:10 pm.

In 2017, on July 3 the 191st and the 300th Army Bands had ongoing performances at the Downtown Disney main stage from 9:45 am through 1:45 pm and then will perform the Disneyland pre-parade at 4:10 pm.

If you plan to visit Disneyland on Independence Day (July 4), be aware that it is one of the busiest days of the year. The park may reach full capacity at some point during the day, and you may not be admitted (or re-admitted) after that point. (This is true even if you have a ticket, even if you’re staying at a Disney resort and even if you have dining reservations in the park. If the park is full, it’s full — Disney has to follow fire codes!) For that reason it’s best to arrive first thing in the morning and stay in the same park all day. Bring any sweaters or jackets you may need later and stow them in a locker when you arrive (the lockers will also sell out). Get Fastpasses right away if you think you will want to ride anything, because the lines will be very long by noon.

CHOC Walk

This annual charity walk at Disneyland is a fundraiser for Children’s Hospital Orange County (CHOC). The walk passes through Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, followed by festivities in Downtown Disney.

The 2017 CHOC Walk will be on August 27.

Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend

The Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend has been affectionately dubbed The Happiest Race on Earth. Participants run, jog or walk a course unlike any other half-marathon on the West Coast. The 13.1-mile route takes runners through the two Disneyland Resort theme parks while colorful Disney characters and festive music inspire them along the way.

In 2017, the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend will be August 31 – September 3.

Registration for the 2017 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend opened December 13, 2016.

Walt Disney World Annual & Season Passholders, Disneyland Annual Passport holders and DVC members are able to register ahead of the general public for some runDisney events. Check the Annual Passholder or DVC member website for details closer to the public registration date.

Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort

New!In 2017, Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort will be offered September 15 – October 31.

This period of time offers a lively mix of Disney characters in seasonal costumes, whimsical décor, decked-out attractions and tasty treats designed with the whole family in mind. Halloween Time experiences include special meet-and-greets with Disneyland characters in their Halloween costumes and spooky-silly holiday themed decorations.

New!New for 2017, the Halloween fun has spread to Disney California Adventure.

Over at Disneyland you’ll find:

Space Mountain offers a Halloween overlay (the “Ghost Galaxy” overlay first introduced at Hong Kong Disneyland). Space Mountain vehicles are thrust into a ghostly galaxy where they are bombarded with eerie screams, sound effects and music. Spine-chilling spirits pop out of the darkness, appearing to reach out and menace space travelers.

And no Halloween celebration at Disneyland would be complete without the return of Jack Skellington and his friends to transform the Haunted Mansion in New Orleans Square into the popular seasonal Haunted Mansion Holiday. Inspired by the animated film Nightmare Before Christmas, Haunted Mansion Holiday depicts the holiday mayhem that occurs when Halloween and Christmas traditions collide.

Also offered is Mickey’s Halloween Party, a separately ticketed night time event which gives kids and their families the opportunity to dress in their Halloween costumes and trick-or-treat throughout Disneyland after it has closed to day guests.

New!In 2017, there will be a special Trick or Tea offered at Steakhouse 55 from September 15 – October 29 and on October 31 with Halloween-themed versions of their usual Afternoon Tea baked goods and desserts. Trick or Tea will be served from 12:00 – 3:00 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Information and reservations are available via the Disneyland dining site or call (714) 781-DINE (3463).

Haunted Mansion Holiday

New!For the 2017 season, “Haunted Mansion Holiday” begins September 15 and runs through early January.

The holiday-enhanced version of the attraction is a Disney California Adventure celebration where the traditions of Halloween and Christmas collide. The ghoulish but well-meaning Jack Skellington from the film Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas comes to the Haunted Mansion to transform it with his skewed vision of the holidays. The Hatbox Ghost, who recently rejoined the Mansion’s happy haunts, is staying to celebrate Halloween and Christmas with Jack Skellington and his friends. Inside the Mansion, you will find a Haunted Mansion Holiday gingerbread house.

Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland

The popular Mickey’s Halloween Party is a bewitching after-hours event at Disneyland.

New!New for 2017, Disney California Adventure will be part of the pre-party mix-in. Early arrivals will be able to visit both theme parks for three hours prior to the party launch in Disneyland.

Once the party gets started in Disneyland, you can enjoy all kinds of frightful fun, such as:

About Costumes:

All event attendees – including adults – may dress in their favorite Halloween costume but must follow strict guidelines. See Disneyland.com/party for full details. Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into the event unless their costume can be modified to meet the standards.

New!2017 Event Dates:

New!2017 Ticket Prices and On-Sale Dates:

New!In 2017, tickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland will go on sale July 17 for Annual Passholders, Disney Visa cardholders and Disney Vacation Club members. Tickets will go on sale July 24 for the general public.

New!New for 2017, admission to Mickey’s Halloween Party includes Disney PhotoPass.

Tickets may be purchased online at Disneyland.com/party, by calling 714-781-4400, or at the Disneyland main gate. Online purchase is not available on the day of the event.

Limit 8 tickets per person, per event date. Each ticket is valid for admission to the event on the specified event date. Tickets are not valid for theme park admission prior to the hours of the event, except as noted above. Admission includes Disney PhotoPass. Please note: Parking is no longer included with your ticket purchase.

New!Mickey’s Halloween Party Dining Package at Blue Bayou

In 2017, a Mickey’s Halloween Party Dining Package at Blue Bayou will be offered on select evenings.

This separately ticketed event includes a dreadfully delish dinner with a view of the Frightfully Fun Parade. Online booking begins July 24, 2017. Check back for more details.

New!Dia de los Muertos

New for 2017, Disney California Adventure will celebrate family and the spirit of the Mexican tradition of Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead.

In 2017, Dia de los Muertos will be offered September 15 – November 2.

This celebration will include special entertainment, featuring musicians and dancers, interactive activities — including a representation of Mexican folk art — and special décor and food inspired by this Mexican celebration of family. There will also have experiences inspired by Disney•Pixar’s Coco. Select elements of the celebration will move to “a bug’s land” beginning November 5, where they will be presented alongside a special sneak peek of the film, which will continue through the holiday season until January 7, 2018.

Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend (formerly knows as Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend)

The Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend at Disneyland is a three-day race weekend that features kids races, the Captain America 5K, the Dr. Strange 10K and the Avengers Super Heroes half marathon, plus several family-friendly events such as a Health & Fitness Expo. The Half Marathon course is a 13.1-mile route through Disneyland and the surrounding areas that differs from the Tinker Bell and Disneyland half marathon courses. Runners who successfully brave the Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon course receive a commemorative Avengers-themed finishers’ medal.

Runners who complete the Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon and the Dr. Strange 10K within the pacing requirements receive the Infinity Gauntlet Challenge Medal. Registration for the Infinity Gauntlet Challenge is required to receive the Infinity Gauntlet Challenge Medal.

In 2017, the Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend will be November 9-12.

Registration for the 2017 Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend opened January 31, 2017.

Walt Disney World Annual & Season Passholders, Disneyland Annual Passport holders and DVC members are able to register ahead of the general public for some runDisney events. Check the Annual Passholder or DVC member website for details closer to the public registration date.

Thanksgiving

Disney does not offer a Thanksgiving parade or decorations in the parks. However, the Christmas decorations are in place in the parks by Thanksgiving weekend and the Christmas Holiday events are well underway by that weekend.

A Disney Family Thanksgiving Feast is usually offered in the Grand Ballroom of the Disneyland Hotel on Thanksgiving Day. Many other restaurants on property also offer Thanksgiving menus.

Holidays at Disneyland Resort (Overview)

Small World Holiday by Loren Javier

It’s A Small World Holiday by Loren Javier (CC)

Each year Disneyland Resort undergoes a Christmas holiday transformation.

For 2016, Holidays at Disneyland was celebrated from November 10 through January 8.

The park decorations start going up gradually right after Halloween and are complete by the beginning of the official holiday period. The ABC-TV Disney Christmas Parade special (which is broadcast on Christmas Day) is filmed in part at Disneyland, usually on the first or second weekend of November, so the decorations on Main Street, U.S.A. have to be in place by then.

Once the holiday period officially begins, Disneyland guests can enjoy a nightly holiday fireworks spectacular. During the holidays, the fireworks show concludes with a magical snowfall down Main Street, U.S.A., Small World Mall and New Orleans Square. Disneyland’s annual holiday parade begins around the same time, and Haunted Mansion Holiday, “it’s a small world” Holiday and Jingle Cruise (the holiday transformation of Jungle Cruise) open around that time. Santa Claus will greet guests in Critter Country.

In Disneyland, the Believe…in Holiday Magic fireworks show and A Christmas Fantasy parade will return. The Paint the Night parade will take place on select nights.

Disney California Adventure celebrates the season with enhanced park-wide decorations and expanded entertainment offerings. Olaf’s Snow Fest, in Hollywood Land, transform Stage 17 into a charming castle courtyard inspired by the Frozen kingdom of Arendelle. It features a giant wintry play area for all ages, with real snow and a small hill for sledding. Music and storytelling entertainment are presented throughout the day. There is holiday decor in Cars Land, “a bug’s land” and Buena Vista Street.

New for 2016, Disney California Adventure added the Festival of Holidays. This event will feature diverse cultural holiday celebrations, including Disney ¡Viva Navidad!, along with the global sounds of special guest musical groups. There will be internationally inspired food and beverages at 14 themed festival marketplaces. Disney Characters will be there to join the celebration and Princess Elena of Avalor will make her Disneyland debut. Santa Claus his sleigh full of mischievous elves can be found on the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail. There will be holiday-themed activities along the trail.

New for 2016, World of Color – Season of Light, a special holiday version of World of Color, took place on select nights throughout the season at Disney California Adventure. This new nighttime spectacular combines classic holiday songs with memorable moments from Disney animated films to create an experience filled with magic.

In Downtown Disney, there is ice skating on Olaf’s Frozen Ice Rink. The Downtown Disney Winter Village around the ice rink offers holiday gift items.

Decorations in the resort hotels and Downtown Disney usually go up right after Thanksgiving (substantially later than the park decorations).

Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure

New for 2016, the Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure features holiday festivities inspired by cultural traditions from around the world. Entertainment experiences throughout the park draw on the diverse celebrations that bring joy during this festive time of year, including Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas/Navidad and Three Kings Day. This celebration also includes Disney ¡Viva Navidad!, a celebration of Latino cultures.

For 2016 the Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventures was held November 10 through January 8.

New for 2016, World of Color – Season of Light, a special holiday version of World of Color, will be take place on select nights throughout the season at Disney California Adventure. This new nighttime spectacular combines classic holiday songs with memorable moments from Disney animated films to create an experience filled with magic.

Head into Redwood Creek Challenge Trail for Santa’s Holiday Visit, where you can meet Santa and see how his joyful elves have transformed the area into a playground of holiday fun and games. In the evening you can enjoy a concert at Paradise Park, featuring performances from two of the festival’s musical groups.

In 2016, Elena of Avalor will make her Disneyland debut during Festival of Holidays. Join Elena, her royal dancers and magical friend Skylar as they celebrate the holidays with an uplifting musical cavalcade.

Some of the performers at the Festival of Holidays are:

Disney ¡Viva Navidad!

This Disney California Adventure holiday presentation is typically celebrated the same dates as the Holidays at Disneyland dates – for 2016 that was November 10 through January 8.

Disney ¡Viva Navidad! is inspired by the warmth and joyous spirit of Latino cultures, filled with holiday traditions, jubilant dancing and exciting music. Based in and around the Paradise Garden area of Disney California Adventure, the special activities include crafts and face-painting for children, live Latino music, dance lessons, holiday foods, a Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party and, of course, appearances by some popular Disney characters.

Paradise Garden is decorated with holly, banners and Latino cultural icons, including traditional “papel picado” hand-cut paper art decorations. At the bandstand, guests can enjoy performances by traditional mariachi, Norteño, and other regional music groups. Community music and folklorico troupes will perform throughout the day. Disney ¡Viva Navidad! guests will find opportunities to enjoy fun arts and crafts, storytelling and face-painting, and they may also discover a selection of unique merchandise in the area.

The Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party takes over Paradise Garden several times daily, featuring the Three Caballeros on a festive holiday float, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse transported on colorfully decorated street tricycles, flag-bearers carrying papel picado banners, Mexican folklorico dancers, samba dancers and drummers, plus giant “Mojiganga” puppets, including representations of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

The grand finale of Disney ¡Viva Navidad! is the special celebration of Three Kings Day (Dia de los Reyes) in Paradise Garden. In 2016 this will be held on January 5 through 8.

Dining locations in Paradise Garden will add an array of popular Mexican food options for Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Menus will feature Mexican dishes that are often served for the holidays, such as pozole (hearty stew), chicken mole drumettes, pescado (fish) Veracruzano, champurrado (Mexican-style hot chocolate), sweet tamales, torta al pastor (pork sandwich), buñuelos (deep-fried sweet treat), choco flan and, for the Three Kings Day celebration, Rosca de Reyes bread.

Candlelight Processional

The Candlelight Processional is an annual event on Main Street that includes a celebrity narrator presenting the Biblical Christmas story, plus a large choir and an orchestra performing traditional carols.

In 2016 the Candlelight Processional was offered on December 3 and 4, with two performances each night, at 5:30 and 8:00 pm.

Tips and tricks based on previous years:

Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

In addition to the special parade, “snow” experience and fireworks at Disneyland, there are usually special buffet meals available on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Information and reservations usually become available about 60 days in advance. Call (714) 781-DINE (3463) for information and reservations.

If you plan to visit one of the theme parks on Christmas Day, be aware that it is one of the busiest days of the year. The parks (especially Disneyland) usually reach full capacity at some point during the day, and you may not be admitted (or re-admitted) to the parks after that point. (This is true even if you have a ticket, even if you’re staying at a Disney resort and even if you have dining reservations in the park. If the park is full, it’s full — Disney has to follow fire codes!) For that reason it’s best to arrive first thing in the morning and stay in the same park all day. Bring any sweaters or jackets you may need later and stow them in a locker when you arrive (the lockers will also sell out). Get Fastpasses right away if you think you will want to ride anything, because the lines will be very long by noon.

Special Activities

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Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, located in Sleeping Beauty Courtyard at Disneyland, is an enchanting place where little royals can create their own wands, fill their own jewelry boxes, and explore a stunning array of storybook delights. The salon is owned by Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother herself and operated by her wand-toting Godmothers-in-Training. They’re wondrous whizzes with faux hair, accessories, jewels, beads, nail paints and other niceties. They’ve conjured up several royal hair styles: fairy tale princess, pop princess, Disney diva, Anna from Frozen or Elsa from Frozen. The boutique is open to princesses ages 3-12.

You can book sessions up to 60 days in advance at (714) 781-STYLE (7895). A valid accepted credit card number is required at time of booking.

Mandara Spa

A touch of Bali comes to the Disneyland Resort at the Mandara Spa at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. With its rustic stonework and finely crafted wood accents, the spa’s natural look and feel beautifully complement the hotel’s classic Arts & Crafts theme. Select one of the specialty massages and, after a restful stop in the Tea Pavilion, you’ll be led to one of the private treatment rooms for a Swedish, Sports or Deep Tissue massage. The spa can even accommodate couples wishing to enjoy a massage together. Other offerings include a variety of facial and full-body treatments, as well as manicures and pedicures. For reservations call (714) 300-7350.

ESPN Zone

ESPN Zone, located in Downtown Disney, is a sports dining and entertainment location offering more than 150 monitors, including a high-definition big screen. The restaurant offers American grill food, plus there is more than 10,000 square feet of interactive games and attractions.

Movies

There is an AMC 12-plex movie theater, the AMC Downtown Disney 12.

Theme Park Tours

From time to time, Disneyland offers special discounts to Annual Passholders and Disney Visa cardholders on various park tours. Reserve a tour up to 30 days in advance by calling (714) 781-4400, or stop by City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A.

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Welcome to Disneyland Tour

This two-and-a-half-hour journey is ideal for first-timers to the Disneyland Resort. It provides tips and suggestions to make the most of your visit, plus you’ll learn fun facts and trivia. The tour includes both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. Participants receive priority seating at a stage show or a parade and a reservation at one dining location for any day of your stay (selected locations). You’ll also receive two Fastpasses to use after the tour, and a sweet treat. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Tour is limited to 20 people. Park admission is required.

Regular price for this tour is $25 per person (all ages).

A Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps Tour

Experience Disneyland from its founder’s perspective. Highlights of the three hour tour include an exclusive look into Walt Disney’s private apartment, a private lunch on Main Street U.S.A., two classic attraction experiences and a collectible pin.

The Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps Tour is not recommended for young children. (Most kids and young teens would find it boring.) Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Tour is limited to 15 people. Park admission is required.

Regular price for this tour is $109 per person (all ages).

Discover the Magic Tour

During this three-hour tour, guests follow musical clues on a scavenger hunt to solve mysteries, hunt for hidden treasure, learn how to outsmart Disney villains and save the day by helping out everyone’s pal, Mickey Mouse. The “Discover the Magic” tour breaks the mold of conventional tours where guests follow a guide who shares information. With this new experience, kids and their parents are put right in the action. The tour includes lunch and a special gift. You’ll have quick visits with a couple of Disney characters along the way.

The Discover the Magic Tour is recommended for families with children ages 5-9. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Tour is limited to 20 people. Park admission is required.

Regular price for the first two guests is $59 per person (two person minimum). Regular price for any additional guests in the same party is $49 per person.

Cultivating the Magic Tour

During this two-hour tour, guests learn about the landscapes and gardens that have transformed 260 acres of orange groves into Disneyland park. Discover how horticulture is used to tell a story and how it helped achieve Walt Disney’s vision for his original Magic Kingdom. On your tour, you will also experience select Disneyland park attractions in a whole new way and learn about the historical significance of trees that you may have walked past dozens of times in past visits to the park. Participants receive a collectible souvenir pin and exclusive seed packet.

The Cultivating the Magic Tour is offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 9:00 am and Mondays at 10:00 am. Park admission is required.

Regular price for this tour is $49 per person (all ages).

Happiest Haunts Tour

This seasonal Halloween-themed 2 1/2-hour walking tour sets its focus on Disneyland park, where you will learn about Halloween traditions through history and trick-or-treat for special goodies along Main Street, U.S.A. Throughout the park, the tour will stops to experience popular Disneyland park attractions and the special Halloween Time attractions: Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy. You will also receive a souvenir keepsake and Halloween treat. Available for all ages, but guests must meet height requirements to experience the included attractions.

The tour is offered nightly from mid-September – October 31. Park admission is required.

On nights when Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party is offered you must purchase the “Ultimate Experience” ticket that combines the Happiest Haunts Tour and admission to the party. No discounts apply to the “Ultimate Experience” ticket.

Regular price for this tour is $80 per person (all ages).

Discounts below applied to the Happiest Haunts Tour, not the “Ultimate Experience” ticket:

Holiday Time at Disneyland Tour

This seasonal Holiday-themed tour usually includes information about Disneyland holiday traditions and decorations, VIP seating at the Christmas Fantasy Parade, a sweet treat and warm beverage, a collectible pin and a visit to Haunted Mansion Holiday and “it’s a small world holiday”.

This tour is offered seasonally from mid-November – early January. Park admission is required.

Regular price for this tour is $80 per person (all ages).

VIP Tour

Disneyland VIP Tours are private tours just for your group. You’ll be led around by a Host or Hostess who will tailor the tour to your interests. They can usually assist you in experiencing the attractions with minimal waits (you don’t always skip the lines, but they know which rides will have the shortest lines at which times and in many cases they are allowed to use the FastPass entrance). When you set up a VIP Tour, you can also request restaurant reservations, special viewing areas for certain shows and parades, etc. The cost is $400-$550 per hour for up to 10 guests (varies seasonally and higher rate applies if booked less than 48 hours in advance). There is a 6-hour minimum. Park admission is required.

There are no discounts on the VIP Tours. You can arrange a VIP Tour by calling Disney Special Activities at (714) 300-7710. Unlike the other tours, VIP Tours can be booked 90 days in advance.