Expert Guide to the Holidays at Disneyland

A visit to Disneyland during the holidays is one of the most memorable ways to experience the parks. From mid-November through early January, the Disneyland Resort turns into a festive winter setting filled with lights, decorations, themed ride overlays, seasonal food, and special entertainment. This guide provides information travelers need to plan a smooth and enjoyable holiday vacation.

 

When the Disneyland Holidays Begin

The Holiday Season runs from November 14, 2025, through January 7, 2026. These dates include Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, along with the continuation of Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary celebration. Because this is one of the busiest times of the year, visitors should book early. Thanksgiving week and the days around Christmas and New Year’s are the first to fill.

What Is New at Disneyland for 2025

Disneyland brings back many popular offerings each year, but 2025 introduces several new attractions and features.

New for This Season

  • Characters wearing new holiday costumes for the 70th Anniversary

  • World of Color: Happiness at Disney California Adventure, which replaces the Season of Light show

  • Two new holiday character dining options at Storytellers Café

    • Daisy’s Holiday Pajama Party for breakfast and brunch

    • Mickey’s Christmas Carol Feast for dinner

Returning Favorites

  • A Christmas Fantasy Parade

  • Believe in Holiday Magic fireworks with snowfall

  • Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail in Downtown Disney

  • Holiday music, cultural celebrations, and live performances throughout Disney California Adventure

Holiday Ride Overlays to Experience

Several attractions receive special holiday versions each year, and these are some of the most popular offerings in the parks.

Haunted Mansion Holiday

This version features a complete transformation inspired by The Nightmare Before Christmas. Because this ride draws large crowds, visiting early in the day or using Lightning Lane is helpful.


“it’s a small world” Holiday


The exterior of the ride is covered with thousands of lights, and the indoor experience includes festive music and detailed decorations. Stop by before 5PM when the turn on their Holiday lights. A nighttime projection show also plays on the outside during the fireworks. 

Cars Land Holiday Overlays

Families with younger children will enjoy Mater’s Jingle Jamboree and Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl, which both receive cheerful holiday updates.  Check out all of the Christmas trees in the land.

Best Holiday Entertainment

Disneyland offers several seasonal shows and performances during the holidays.

A Christmas Fantasy Parade

This afternoon parade features toy soldiers, reindeer, dancers, and a grand finale with Santa Claus.  Check the event calendar for times and make sure to arrive 45-60 minutes for a good spot.  


Believe in Holiday Magic Fireworks

This nighttime show includes classic holiday music, projections on Sleeping Beauty Castle, and snowfall along Main Street, U.S.A. 

Disney California Adventure Holiday Shows

Guests can also enjoy entertainment such as Viva Navidad on weekends, A Musical Christmas with Mariachi Alegría and Miguel, and Mirabel’s Gifts of the Season.

Festival of Holidays

Disney California Adventure hosts the Festival of Holidays, which celebrates food, music, and traditions from various cultures. The event includes themed marketplaces offering seasonal dishes and desserts.

LlSip and Savor Pass

This pass allows guests to sample multiple items throughout the festival. It includes six tastings, with a lower price for Magic Keyholders. It can be used for food, desserts, and nonalcoholic drinks.

Best Holiday Decorations and Photo Spots

The parks and hotels are filled with decorations, but some locations are especially popular for photos.

  • Sleeping Beauty Winter Castle

  • Main Street, U.S.A. with its large tree, garlands, and wreaths

  • Cars Land, with detailed and creative holiday displays

  • Plaza Point Holiday Shoppe

  • The lobby trees and gingerbread displays at the Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel

  

These areas are ideal for family photos, and guests should plan for extra time to explore them.

Visiting Disneyland during the holidays is truly one of the most magical ways to experience the resort. With festive decorations, special entertainment, limited-time food, and holiday overlays on classic attractions, there’s something for every family to enjoy.   The holidays draw crowds so I recommend planning ahead to help make the trip smoother and less stressful.  Whether you’re coming for the 2025 offerings, the returning favorites, or simply to make special memories together, the holidays at Disneyland are a season worth experiencing.


Elisa Mendoza loves helping others create magical memories with their family and friends. You can email Elisa at elisa@kingdomkonsultant.com.


Location: Anaheim, CA 92802, USA

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