You might be thinking, “Didn’t we just finish the Christmas season, but when it comes to planning a holiday at Disney, there’s no such thing as “too early.” My last December adventure to the land of Mickey was enchanting. I thought I might sprinkle a little of that Disney Christmas magic your way, hopefully inspiring you to experience it yourself.
This year, Disneyland is decked out for the holiday season from November 15, 2024, through the first week of January 2025. In hindsight, my trip at the beginning of December was perfectly timed. Opting for a three-day hopper ticket from Saturday to Monday allowed us to avoid the bigger crowds, thanks to kids still being in school, and truly make the most of our visit.
The Magic Begins
Upon arrival, our very first mission was to snag some Magic Bands. Some stores carry limited edition styles that add an extra layer of special to your visit. If you’re considering this, my tip is to check Downtown Disney first, then the Emporium on Main Street, USA, as each location has its own unique selection.
With our Magic Bands secured, it was time to brush up on our knowledge of the Genie Pass platform and the Disneyland mobile app. For those looking to conquer every ride (and maybe hit a few favourites multiple times), the Genie Pass is a game-changer. Just a heads up, though—some attractions, like Rise of the Resistance, don’t play along with the Genie Pass system. But thanks to the app’s real-time updates on wait times, we managed to experience all the rides on our list, Genie Pass or not.
The Holiday Magic
Now, onto the Christmas magic. Disneyland at Christmas can only be described as, well, magical. The towering 60-foot Christmas Tree on Main Street and the holiday makeover of “It’s a Small World” are just the start. Each season brings new experiences to some rides, and the holiday season is no exception.
Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, transformed into a wintry wonderland, was so breathtaking it felt surreal. The Haunted Mansion gets a visit from Jack Skellington, turning it into a “Nightmare Before Christmas” themed ride. Daily Christmas parades and special holiday treats (Mickey Gingerbread Cookies, anyone?) add to the festive atmosphere.
The Spirit of the Season
Despite my love for Christmas, the hustle and bustle of daily life often make it hard to get into the holiday spirit truly. Yet, within a few hours of arriving at Disney, I felt a shift. There’s something about the park’s festive ambiance that reignites the joy and excitement of the season. It’s a reminder of what’s important about this time of year, beyond the rides and the parades: the chance to create and share moments of joy with our loved ones.
Your Turn to Experience the Magic
If you’ve never experienced Disney during the holiday season, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s a unique blend of the familiar and the enchantingly new, offering great value and countless memories. You’re in for a delightful surprise for those who’ve visited Disney before but not during the holidays. It’s a magical way to celebrate the season and create memories that last a lifetime.
