Disneyland Special Events, Activities & Tours

LAST UPDATE: 10/16/19

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 at Disneyland Resort, as well as how to save money on theme park tours.

Notes:

• 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, Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival) 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.
• Information on events that have already happened are colored gray. Once we get details about the next occurrence of that event, we update our information and change the text to black again.

Jump to:

• Special Events
• Special Activities
• Theme Park Tours

Special Events

Jump to:

January-May Events

• New Year’s Day
• Día de los Reyes (Three Kings Day)
• Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – The Light Side
• Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year)
• Valentine’s Day
• Celebrate Gospel
• Mardi Gras
• Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival
• Easter
• Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend
• Mother’s Day

June-August Events

• Independence Day (July 4)
• CHOC Walk in the Park
• Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend

September-December Events

• Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend
• Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort
• Haunted Mansion Holiday
• Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland
• Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party at Disney California Adventure
• Día de los Muertos
• Plaza de la Familia
• Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend
• Thanksgiving
• Holidays at Disneyland Resort (Overview)
• Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure
• Disney ¡Viva Navidad!
• Candlelight Processional
• Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
• New Year’s Eve

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.

Disney hotels may offer a special dinner or party for New Year’s Eve, to find out go to the Disneyland dining page.

Día de los Reyes (Three Kings Day)

In 2020, Día de los Reyes will be celebrated January 3-6.

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

The celebration in Paradise Garden at Disney California Adventure includes entertainment, Disney characters in festive attire, kids’ activities and specialty food items. It is the grand finale of Disney ¡Viva Navidad!

Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – The Light Side

Due to the ongoing construction for the Disneyland Resort expansion, all runDisney race weekends at Disneyland Resort are on hiatus. This includes the associated Coast to Coast Race Challenges. For more information, go to the runDisney website.

In previous years, the Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – The Light Side took place in mid-January.

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. Those who complete the Star Wars 10K on Saturday and the Star Wars Half Marathon on Sunday receive the Star Wars Rebel Challenge Finisher Medal in addition to the Half Marathon and 10K Finisher Medals.

Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year)

In 2019, Lunar New Year was celebrated January 25 – February 17.

The Lunar New Year celebration takes place at Paradise Gardens in Disney California Adventure and includes traditions from Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures. In addition to the Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession parade, 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.

Each night, before World of Color, the Lunar New Year Celebration culminates in a 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.

• More information can be found on the Disneyland Resort Lunar New Year page.

Valentine’s Day

For Valentine’s Day (always on February 14), several Disneyland Resort restaurant offers a special menu including Blue Bayou, Carnation Café, Steakhouse 55, Napa Rose and Storytellers Café. There are also some holiday themed desserts and treats offered throughout the parks and hotel restaurants. You can reserve holiday meals on the Disneyland dining site or by calling 714-781-DINE (3463).

• For more Valentine’s Day suggestions, take a look at our tips and ideas for adding some romance to a Disneyland trip.

Celebrate Gospel

In 2019, Celebrate Gospel took place on February 16.

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 2019, Celebrate Gospel will feature the following choirs: Amazing Grace Conservatory (Los Angeles), Eastvale Bible Church Mass Choir (Norco), Friendship Baptist Church Mass Choir (Yorba Linda), Greater LA Cathedral Choir (Los Angeles), KJLH Radio Free Performance Choir (Los Angeles), LA Inner City Mass Choir (Los Angeles), Lorenzo Johnson & Praizum (Los Angeles), New Hope Gospel Choir (Orange), Rhythm and Moves Children Youth Choir (Pasadena), Second Baptist Church Mass Choir (Santa Ana), Ty Snow & Xtreme Purpose (Pasadena), Voices of Destiny (Compton), Voices of Life (Riverside), Voices of Unity (The Inland Empire), West Angeles Angelic Children’s Choir (Los Angeles), along with house bands Higher Authority (San Diego) and J. Boykin Gospel Band (Riverside).

Mardi Gras

In 2020, Mardi Gras will be February 25.

The New Orleans Square area of Disneyland celebrates Mardi Gras each year. On that day, the streets of New Orleans Square are filled with music, Disney characters, street performers and special food items. This Mardi Gras celebration typically includes 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!

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival

In 2019, the Disney California Food & Wine Festival was held March 1 – April 23.

The Disney California Adventure Food & Wine 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, live art demonstrations and live musical performances. Kids ages 3-11 can participate in a complementary, hands-on experience called Jr. Chef.

Reservations for 2019 Signature Events, such as Dinner with Disney Chefs, Winemaker Receptions at Carthay Circle Restaurant and Sweet Sundays, opened on January 16, 2019.

• For more information, visit the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival page.

Easter

In 2020, Easter Sunday will be April 12.

In 2019, the Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt was held April 5-21 in Disneyland, Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney. Maps and stickers were available for $6.99 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 to pick up a surprise.

Some restaurants offer a special Easter meal.

• For more information about Easter meals or to make a reservation, go to the Disneyland dining page.

Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend

Due to the ongoing construction for the Disneyland Resort expansion, all runDisney race weekends at Disneyland Resort are on hiatus. This includes the associated Coast to Coast Race Challenges. For more information, go to the runDisney website.

In previous years, the Tinker Bell Half Marathon took place in mid-May.

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.

Mother’s Day

In 2020, Mother’s Day will be May 10.

On Mother’s Day, the second Sunday in May, Blue Bayou Restaurant and Carnation Cafe have offered special meals. Steakhouse 55 at Disneyland Hotel offers a Mother’s Day-themed dessert at their Afternoon Tea on select weekend dates near Mother’s Day. Other restaurants may offer special meals as well.

• For more information about Mother’s Day meals or to make a reservation, go to the Disneyland dining page.

Independence Day (July 4)

In 2019, on July 4, Disneyland Park had a special patriotic nighttime spectacular: Disney’s Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.

Some Disneyland Resort Hotels offer a special meal, like a BBQ, or holiday activities. Sometimes these are open to the general pubic, sometimes they are only for hotel guests.

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 in the Park

The 2019 CHOC Walk was on August 11.

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.

• For more information, visit the CHOC Walk in the Park website.

Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend

Due to the ongoing construction for the Disneyland Resort expansion, all runDisney race weekends at Disneyland Resort are on hiatus. This includes the associated Coast to Coast Race Challenges. For more information, go to the runDisney website.

In previous years, the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend took place late August/early September.

The Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend has been affectionately dubbed The Happiest Race on Earth. The 13.1-mile route takes runners (or joggers or walkers) through the two Disneyland theme parks while colorful Disney characters and festive music inspire them along the way.

Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort

In 2019, Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort will be September 6 – October 31.

During this time period Disneyland Resort visitors will find Disney characters in seasonal costumes, whimsical décor, decked-out attractions and special seasonal treats. Halloween Time experiences include special meet-and-greets with Disneyland characters in their Halloween costumes and spooky-silly holiday themed decorations.

In 2019, there is also Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney 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 Disney California Adventure after it has closed to day guests. This event replaces Mickey’s Halloween Party.

Special Halloween activities at Disney California Adventure include:

• Each night Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! will turn into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark. As night falls, The Collector’s Fortress goes dark, alarms sound and all-new lighting on the exterior of the Fortress alerts guests that something inside has gone awry. Rocket discovers that in the hurry to free his friends (during the day), they have inadvertently left Groot behind. Now Rocket needs to distract all the monsters he has unleashed inside the Fortress, and he enlists the guests to help.
• Buena Vista Street will be decorated with Halloween decor inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas and Mickey Mouse and his friends will be decked out in their costumes. Oogie Boogie’s oversized silhouette beckons guests through the main entrance as a swarm of bats encircle Carthay Circle Theatre. A 10-foot-tall statue of the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow, holding his jack-o’-lantern head up to the sky, will be in Carthay Circle.
• In Cars Land, the citizens of Radiator Springs don their Halloween costumes and decorate their homes to celebrate Haul-O-Ween. From Fillmore’s Jack-Oil Lanterns and Flo’s Spider-Car to Witchy Miss Lizzie’s shop, everybody’s doing all they can to turn Radiator Springs into Radiator Screams! Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree becomes Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters transforms into Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween.

Over at Disneyland you’ll find:

• New for 2019, on most nights there will be a supernatural projection and special effects show: Halloween Screams. On select nights, Halloween Screams will include fireworks.
• In New Orleans Square, Jack Skellington and his friends to transform the Haunted Mansion into the 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.
• Frontierland pays tribute to Día de los Muertos, an Hispanic observance, with a traditional skeleton display.
• Main Street, U.S.A. celebrates with the Main Street Pumpkin Festival – more than 300 pumpkins will be on display in shop windows and none of them are the same!

For more information, visit Disneyland Resort’s Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort page.

Haunted Mansion Holiday

In 2019, Haunted Mansion Holiday will run September 6, 2019 – January 6, 2020.

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

For 2019, Disneyland replaced Mickey’s Halloween Party with Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party at Disney California Adventure.

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party at Disney California Adventure

In 2019, Oogie Boogie Bash will be held September 17*, 19*, 22, 24*, 26*, 29; October 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29 and 31.

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party will be held on select nights in September and October at Disney California Adventure after the regular closing of Disneyland Resort and requires separate admission to attend. Attendees can enter Disney California Adventure for up 3 hours before the event starts on Tuesday and Thursday nights (excluding October 29 and 31) or up to 4 hours on Sunday nights, plus October 29 and 31.

The 5-hour party includes:

• Villainous! – A new World of Color show tells the story of Shelley Marie as she tries to decide on her Halloween costume for the year. She wonders if she can be as strong and unique as some of her favorite Disney characters. This twisted tale explores the villainous side of Disney characters through fountains, lights, lasers, projections and special effects.
• Villains Grove – The Redwood Creek Challenge Trail will be transformed into a world of Disney villains. This family-friendly experience will have a series of Halloween scenes, each creating a not-so-scary symphony of sound, light and shadows to explore.
• Frightfully Fun Parade – The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow starts the procession, followed by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, and includes many mischievous Disney villains.
• Mickey’s Trick and Treat show – This new, interactive stage production invites kids of all ages to join Mickey Mouse and his pals as they throw a one-of-a-kind Halloween party! Enjoy dancing, not-so-frightening scary-tales, and candy at the Disney Theater in Hollywood Land.

There will also be treat trails throughout the park for trick-or-treating, a dance party and character meet and greets. New Halloween magic will appear on the façade of Carthay Circle on Buena Vista Street.

All event attendees – including adults – may dress in their favorite Halloween costume but must follow strict guidelines. See Disneyland.com/HalloweenParty 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.

2019 Ticket Prices for the general public:

• $110 per person (age 3+) for September 17, 19, 24 and 26
• $120 per person (age 3+) for September 22, 29; October 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 and 24
• $145 per person (age 3+) for October 6, 13, 20, 27, 29 and 31

*Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders can buy discounted tickets for select dates in September.

2019 Discount Ticket Prices for Annual Passholders:

• $100 per person (age 3+) for September 17, 19, 24 and 26

Día de los Muertos

In 2019, Día de los Muertos will be September 6 – November 3.

In Disneyland Park, Zócalo Park in Frontierland will have a colorful display featuring marigolds and papel picado, along with a traditional ofrenda, calaveras (sugar skulls), an iconic figure of La Catrina and food at Rancho del Zócalo.

• For more information, check Disneyland Resort’s Día de los Muertos page.

Plaza de la Familia

In 2019, Plaza de la Familia will be September 6 – November 3.

In Disney California Adventure in Paradise Gardens, Plaza de la Familia celebrates Disney·Pixar’s Coco and the everlasting bonds of family. Families visiting Plaza de la Familia can share memories of loved ones on the memory wall near the Árbol de la Vida, or Tree of Life. There will also be a World of Coco exhibit and Mexican food. “A Musical Celebration of Coco,” performed several times a day, will feature storytellers, the Mariachi Divas and authentic Folklórico dancers to tell the story of Miguel’s journey in Coco.

• For more information, check Disneyland Resort’s Plaza de la Familia page.

Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend 

Due to the ongoing construction for the Disneyland Resort expansion, all runDisney race weekends at Disneyland Resort are on hiatus. This includes the associated Coast to Coast Race Challenges. For more information, go to the runDisney website.

In previous years the Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend took place in mid-November.

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.

Thanksgiving

In 2019, Thanksgiving will be November 28. Thanksgiving is always the fourth Thursday in November.

Disneyland 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.

• For more information about Thanksgiving meals or to make a reservation, go to the Disneyland dining site or call (714) 781- DINE (3463).

Holidays at Disneyland Resort (Overview)

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

For 2019, Holidays at Disneyland will be November 8 through January 6, 2020.

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 – Believe…in Holiday Magic. During the holidays, the fireworks show concludes with a magical snowfall down Main Street, U.S.A., Small World Mall and New Orleans Square. A Christmas Fantasy, Disneyland’s annual holiday parade, begins around the same time. Sleeping Beauty’s Castle becomes Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle – covered with shimmering icicles and twinkling lights. Several rides undergo a special holiday transformation: Haunted Mansion Holiday and “it’s a small world” Holiday. Santa Claus greets guests in Critter Country.

Disney California Adventure celebrates the season with special decorations and entertainment offerings and the Festival of Holidays. This event features diverse cultural holiday celebrations, including Disney ¡Viva Navidad!, along with the global sounds of special guest musical groups. There is holiday decor in Cars Land and Buena Vista Street. World of Color – Season of Light, a special holiday version of World of Color, takes place on select nights throughout the season at Disney California Adventure. Holiday music transforms Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters into Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree into Mater’s Jingle Jamboree.

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). Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is decorated with Craftsman-inspired décor, including natural garlands, a Christmas tree lit with “arts and crafts” lanterns and a giant gingerbread replica of the hotel in the lobby. Holiday sweets can be purchased from the lobby’s holiday cart. The midcentury Disneyland Hotel receives a retro-holiday look with silver trees and bright colors. Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel features blue, green and silver holiday décor—along with shells and starfish garland.

In 2019, Santa will visit each hotel from November 8 through December 24. Vocal performers and holiday carolers will be performing throughout the holiday season at each resort hotel.

• For more information, visit the Disneyland Resort’s Holidays at Disneyland Resort page.

Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure

In 2019, the Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure will be November 8 – January 6, 2020.

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.

The Festive Foods Marketplace features holiday favorites from different cuisines and traditions. In 2018, as part of the Festive Foods Marketplace, there was a Sip and Savor Pass with eight pull-off tabs. Each tab could be traded for one food item or one non-alcoholic beverage at select Festive Food Marketplace locations. The Sip and Savor Pass cost $54.00, tax included, and could be purchased at various locations throughout the park, including the Festival Merchandise Carts, Seaside Souvenirs, Holiday Central, Kingswell Camera Shop, and Rushin’ River Outfitters. There was a discount for Annual Passholders.

World of Color – Season of Light, a special holiday version of World of Color, takes place on select nights throughout the season at Disney California Adventure. This 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 through Christmas Eve (December 24) and see how his joyful elves have transformed the area into a playground of holiday fun and games.

• For more information, visit the Disneyland Resort’s Festival of Holidays page.

Disney ¡Viva Navidad!

In 2019, Disney ¡Viva Navidad! at Disney California Adventure will take place November 8 – January 6, 2020.

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 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. Dining locations in Paradise Garden feature Mexican dishes that are often served for the holidays.

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 (Día de los Reyes) in Paradise Garden.

• For more information, visit the Disneyland Resort’s ¡Viva Navidad! page.

Candlelight Processional

The Candlelight Processional at Disneyland Park is usually held the first weekend in December, with two performances each night, at 5:30 and 8:00 pm. Exact dates and narrators are not always announced in advance.

The annual event includes a celebrity narrator presenting the Biblical Christmas story as well as an orchestra and hundreds of choir members from local communities performing traditional carols. The members of the choir walk down Main Street, U.S.A. with lighted candles and gather in front of the train station in Town Square for the performance. Seating for this event is invitation-only. However, the general public can watch from any place not reserved for performers or invited guests.

Tips and tricks based on previous years:

• MouseSavers reader Laura C writes: “There is limited seating in the town square in front of the train station. Those seats are reserved for VIP’s… However, there is plenty of room to stand and watch behind the seating. Still very enjoyable and didn’t cost us an extra dime. Hint: If you get there early enough you can stand on the porch of guest services and see right over the heads of everyone – awesome spot.”
• Another reader reports in 2011 that she watched the second performance from the seats, without paying a dime. There were VIPs who paid $2,500 for a package including reserved seats. Once the VIPs were seated up front, the Cast Members allowed guests from the waiting crowd to take any unfilled seats. So it’s possible to get lucky!

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

Jump to:

• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
• Splitsville
• The Void

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 on the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique page or by calling (714) 781-STYLE (7895). A valid accepted credit card number is required at time of booking.

• There are occasionally limited-time discounts or deals for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members, so if you are one or the other, be sure to ask when booking and at check-in.
• Note that you can bring your own princess costume from home and save a fortune vs. buying a costume at the Boutique! Thanks to Carla C for info.

Splitsville

Splitsville is a luxury bowling alley with great food, located in Downtown Disney. They also have live bands performing every Saturday night from 9 pm – 12:30 am. There is no cover charge.

• Birnbaum’s Disneyland Resort 2019 includes a coupon for 10% off bowling for groups of 10 or less. Cannot be applied to lane reservations or private events. Expires 12/31/19.
• Disney Vacation Club members can attend Member Nights, most Wednesdays at 6:00 pm for $55 plus tax per adult (age 10 an up) and $45 plus tax per child (age 9 and under). This includes 2 hours of bowling time, shoe rental, one shared appetizer (per 2 people), an entrée (or kid’s meal), a beverage and member-only bowling socks. Advance reservations through Member Services are required; check the DVC member site for blockout dates.

The Void

The Void offers two virtual-reality experiences in Downtown Disney: Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire and Ralph Breaks VR. In both experiences, guests can move freely through an untethered, social, multi-sensory experience while interacting with members of their party as well as the characters.

Depending on how busy they are, the whole experience can take between 30 minutes to an hour, which includes an orientation and suiting up, as well as the actual virtual reality experience. Advance reservations are recommended.

• Birnbaum’s Disneyland Resort 2020 includes a coupon for 10% off ticket purchase and a FREE digital photo (one per party). Expires 12/31/20.

Theme Park Tours

From time to time, Disneyland offers special discounts to Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club members 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.

Jump to:

• Grand Circle Tour
• Happiest Haunts Tour
• Holiday Time at Disneyland Tour
• Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps Tour
• VIP Tour

Grand Circle Tour

Get a behind-the-scenes look into Walt Disney’s love for trains and discover the impact it had on his magical creations. This 2-hour tour begins with a beverage and donut and then a walk through Disneyland while you hear about the impact trains have had on Walt Disney’s dreams—from animation and film all the way to the theme parks. Then enjoy riding the Disneyland Railroad while sitting in the Lilly Belle, Disneyland Railroad’s special parlor car — it’s not usually available for guests to ride, but on this special tour it is! Participants receive a collectible souvenir specific to this tour.

This tour costs $85 per person (age 3 and up). Park admission is required and is not included in the price.

• Disneyland Annual Passholders receive 15% off the regular price of this tour.

Happiest Haunts Tour

This 2.5-hour walking tour focuses on the history of the Haunted Mansion attraction. During your walk around Disneyland park, you will hear stories about what inspired the Imagineers who created it, as well as getting to visit with one of the characters. You will receive a treat, special collectible pin and credential souvenir keepsake.

This tour costs $85 per person (age 3 and up). Park admission is required and not included in the price.

• Disneyland Annual Passholders receive 15% off the regular price of this tour.
• Disney Vacation Club members receive 15% off the regular price of this tour.
• Disney Visa cardholders receive 15% off the regular price of this tour. You must use a valid Disney Visa card to purchase the tour.

Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort Tour

This seasonal holiday-themed tour includes information about Disneyland holiday traditions, reserved seating at the Christmas Fantasy Parade, a sweet treat and warm beverage and a collectible pin. This 2.5-hour tour is offered daily during the holiday season (mid-November through early January).

This tour costs $85 per person (age 3 and up). Park admission is required and not included in the price.

• Disneyland Annual Passholders receive 15% off the regular price of this tour.
• Disney Visa cardholders receive 15% off the regular price of this tour. You must use a valid Disney Visa card to purchase the tour.

Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps Tour

Experience Disneyland from its founder’s perspective – his inspirations and his challenges while designing his first theme park. Highlights of the 3-hour tour include an exclusive look into Walt Disney’s private apartment (if available, sometimes it is another non-public part of the park), a private lunch or dinner on Main Street U.S.A., two classic attraction experiences and a collectible pin.

This tour costs $109 per person (age 3 and up). Park admission is required and in not included in the price.

• Disneyland Annual Passholders receive 15% off the regular price of this tour.
• Disney Vacation Club members receive 15% off the regular price of this tour.
• Disney Visa cardholders receive 15% off the regular price of this tour. You must use a valid Disney Visa card to purchase the tour.

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.