It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Disneyland. Mixing the wonder of the holidays with the magic of Disney makes for some very jolly family fun. Here are photos of the special touches, decorations, and treats at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks at Christmastime to get you in the holiday spirit.
Christmas touches are everywhere at Disneyland during the holidays. Santa can even be spotted spinning popcorn inside a vendor’s cart!
This Christmasy display of white Sweet Alyssum and red Amaryllis greet Disneyland visitors at the start of Main Street USA.
This giant Christmas tree is the focal point of the traditional decorations featured along Main Street.
Stop by Santa’s Reindeer Roundup to see real-live reindeer like this handsome guy.
“It’s a small world” is all dolled up for the holidays with lights, characters, and decorations.
Modern wreaths near “it’s a small world” Holiday represent different cultures, like this Mexico-themed wreath.
Mrs. Claus is joined by Pluto and other Disney characters in A Christmas Fantasy Parade. Santa rides on a separate finale float.
Tigger tosses a handful of “snow” at parade viewers.
You can buy a tasty loaf of sourdough bread in the shape of a snowman, Christmas tree, candycane and other holiday designs at the Pacific Wharf Cafe at Disney’s California Adventure.
There are plenty of holiday-themed Disney treats and gifts available for purchase throughout Disneyland, Disney’s California Adventure, and Downtown Disney District.
If you want to get in the Disney holiday spirit but don’t have the cash to spend on entrance tickets, you can always head to Downtown Disney District to take in the twinkling lights and do some Christmas shopping.
Disney characters like Mickey and Minnie are dressed up for the holidays and happy to pose with your family at both Disneyland theme parks.
For more detailed information about the special rides and activities offered, read Holidays at Disneyland!
What’s your favorite part about Christmastime at Disneyland? Tell us in the comments below!
Ariel, one of Disney’s most beloved princesses, is being immortalized in her very own ride at Disney’s California Adventure Park. The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure opened on June 3, 2011 amid much excitement and very long lines. I was lucky to take a spin on this new attraction and even luckier to meet with Jodi Benson, who plays the voice of Ariel in both the movies and the ride.
The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure Ride
Take a Ride with the Little Mermaid The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure is located along the edge of Paradise Pier, across from the ”World of Color” nighttime show and Ariel’s Grotto restaurant. Riders take off on a make-believe journey aboard a clamshell. Physically challenged riders can choose to stay seated in wheelchairs and board specially designed, fancy schmancy King Triton chariots instead of transferring.
Ursula the Sea Witch
I was half-expecting there to be a fish-filled real aquarium like in Disneyland’s Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage or Disney World’s the Seas with Nemo and Friends, but the water on this ride is imaginary. Ariel’s Undersea Adventure has an old school feel like the dark rides in Fantasyland, but with modern technology and touches. The movie’s characters make appearances, like Ursula, Flounder, Sebastian, and Ariel’s father, King Triton. Little girls will swoon over the ride’s final scene, the wedding of Ariel and her Prince Eric.
Broadway’s Original Ursula, Sherie Rene Scott singing “Poor Unfortunate Souls”
An Opening Ceremony to Sing About Jodi Benson sweetly sang the cartoon movie’s wistful song, “Part of Your World” at the ride’s opening ceremony. Jodi looks somewhat similar to Ariel, with long curls and a petite frame. Sherie Rene Scott, the original Broadway voice of the evil Sea Witch, Ursula, belted out “Poor Unfortunate Souls.” Sherie is the antithesis in appearance from the scary octopus character; she’s a svelte blond beauty with a killer voice. The movie’s original voice of Ursula, Pat Carroll, was also in attendance.
Jodi Benson, Chairman of Disney Parks and Resorts Tom Skaggs, and Sheri Rene Scott in the Opening Ceremony Finale
Jodi Benson – Bringing Ariel to Life After the ceremony, I was treated to an interview with Jodi Benson, who plays the voice of Ariel in The Little Mermaid movies, the voice of Barbie in Toy Story 2 and Toy Story 3, and Sam in Enchanted. Jodi, who as a child “always, always, always” dreamed of being a professional singer, insisted her debut ride aboard Ariel’s Undersea Adventure be with her husband and two children. She said, “I wanted to experience this for the first time with my family.”
Jodi Benson, the voice of Ariel
When asked about her gown, Jodi said she bought it from a local dress maker in her small hometown in Georgia. She told the shop owner she needed a dress for the opening of the new Disney Little Mermaid ride and he told her, “I think I have just the thing.” You would think it was made specifically for this event, a full-length gown swirling with ocean-inspired colors and adorned with crystals fit for a princess.
Here I am posing with Jodi Benson (Note to self: wear more make-up when taking photos with beautiful Hollywood types!)
On the day of the ride’s opening ceremony Jodi’s daughter, Delaney, was dressed up in her Ariel costume and sporting an “It’s my birthday” Disney pin in honor of her upcoming tenth birthday. When I asked what her kids think about their mom being the voice of Ariel, she said, “It’s unbelievable to them. They get it. They know they are so incredibly blessed.” Jodi bubbled about her role as homeschool teacher to Delaney and her 12-year-old son, McKinley.
A Dream Day for Little Mermaid Fanatics As a birthday bonanza for the the Little Mermaid fan in your life, take your princess to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Disneyland’s Fantasyland for an Ariel makeover complete with red hair extensions and glitter galore. Then set sail on Ariel’s Undersea Adventure to ooh and ahh at the romantic scenes and darling undersea characters. Next dine at Ariel’s Grotto with a royal selection of Disney princesses like Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Belle. All diners get a chance to meet Ariel and pose for a photo with the Little Mermaid. Top off the evening with a viewing of “World of Color,” which includes music and images from the movie, The Little Mermaid.
My daughter with the namesake character at Ariel’s Grotto a couple of years ago
A Note from The Travel Mama: I received complimentary entrance to the Disneyland Resort Parks and accommodations to participate in a two-day media event surrounding the opening of The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure and other new Disney attractions.
A friend emailed me this week inquiring about Halloween at Disneyland. She said, “I always see advertisements for it but don’t really get it. What’s the difference in seeing Disneyland after closing for Halloween? Is it pretty much the same just that you get to wear scary costumes? Is there something special to it?”
My daughter posing with Goofy in his Halloween garb in 2008
There are two ways to experience Disneyland during Halloween, which may have led to my fellow Travel Mama’s confusion. Mickey’s Halloween Party is a separately ticketed event that takes place on special evenings after the amusement park closes to the public. However, you don’t necessarily need to attend the party to enjoy this holiday at Disneyland because Halloween decorations, special treats, rides, and special touches are available to all park goers.
Mickey’s Halloween Party
Yes, dressing up in costumes is part of the fun of attending Mickey’s Halloween Party. If you plan to go, plan to don a costume! This is a great excuse to act like a kid again. Many attendees choose Disney-themed gear and some go above and beyond to purchase or create elaborate outfits. Families often come in group ensembles, such as the whole clan coming dressed as The Incredibles.
Yes, there IS something special to this party beyond the attire! Trick-or-treating stations are strategically placed throughout Disneyland. (The party moves this year from Disney’s California Adventure to Disneyland.) Treat-seekers are given a map and a treat bag. Finding the booths becomes a scavenger hunt of sorts. Half a million pounds of candy are doled out to party attendees each year! For those seeking healthier treats, alternative snacks like carrots, apple slices, and raisins are also available.
The fun doesn’t end there! Halloween music adds to the party atmosphere. Living Scarecrows that speak directly to guests are a favorite among attendees year after year. The Halloween Screams Fireworks Show is only shown during Mickey’s Halloween Party and features spooky effects and images of Jack Skellington. New this year, Mickey’s Costume Party Calvacade Parade includes surprise interactions with guests and takes place twice per night.
Halloween Screams Fireworks Show
Two dance partiesoffer family-friendly fun, Club Skellington at the French Market Café and Buzz Lightyear’s Intergalactic Family Party at the Tomorrowland Terrace. The title characters (and friends) make appearances throughout the evening to show off their dance moves and pose for photo opps.
Since Mickey’s Halloween Party is a separately ticketed event, this is a more intimate affair. Ahem! That means shorter lines for the rides and other attractions! All areas of Disneyland Park remain open during the event besides Toontown, which is closed due to the fireworks displays.
The cost to attend Mickey’s Halloween Party is $49 if purchased in advance, $54 at the door, and $59 on October 31. The cost includes entrance to the park up to three hours before the party starts. Parties take place Tuesdays and Fridays throughout October, plus on Halloween. Find out more or purchase tickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party.
Halloween Beyond Mickey’s Party
If the party doesn’t pique your interest, you can enjoy the parks during regular hours for a taste of something spooky instead. Both parks are decked-out with holiday decorations of the jack-o-lantern and semi-scary variety. The bulk of the festive décor can be found along Main Street as part of the Main Street Pumpkin Festival, which features over 300 hundred pumpkins in store windows. Go here for special treats like caramel apples, pumpkin-flavored fudge, and pumpkin spice cupcakes. Themed souvenirs like jack-o-lantern mouse ears can be found in the stores too.
Halloween goodies at Disneyland
The Haunted Mansion becomes the Haunted Holiday thanks to Jack Skellington and friends from The Nightmare Before Christmas. This ride maintains its mixed up Halloween/Christmas makeover through the winter holidays and may actually feel more less frightening to young visitors during this time-frame. (Still, I had to leave the line with my terrified, screaming two-and-a-half-year-old before we were even able to board.)
Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion all dressed up for the holidays
My favorite ride takes a sinister spin, with a haunting soundtrack and a creepy goblin chasing the coaster through the dark in Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy. Of course, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, while not transformed for the holiday, is a must-ride during Halloween.
Here I am with the hubs having a screaming good time (with eyes closed, apparently) on Space Mountain’s Ghost Galaxy
Friendly characters like Mickey and Minnie are dolled up in their own Halloween costumes and there is an influx of villain characters available for meet-and-greets. This year, the Evil Queen, Ursula, Captain Hook, Maleficent, Cruella De Vil, and Jafar are campaigning for your vote as your favorite baddy. You can vote online for who you love to hate the most. (I voted for the Queen. Poor thing! No one likes to age! And who needs a talking mirror reminding you that there’s a hotter number in town all the time?!)
The Queen (Snow White’s nemesis) was not impressed with my daughter’s princess pen
I hope that clears up what makes Halloween at Disneyland special! Since having kids, Halloween has become my favorite time of the year. It’s got all of the fun of the winter holidays, without all the stress! A trip to Disneyland is a spooktacular way to celebrate Halloween in a family-friendly, spirited way.
What’s your favorite Disney Halloween activity? Please leave a comment below!
Each of the five Disneyland character meals has its own feel, special touches, and star character. These meals are a great way to meet many characters in one fell swoop, which frees up park time to enjoy rides, shows, and other attractions rather than waiting in long lines for a brief photo opp. But how do you know which character meal is best for your family? Let me break it down for you…
Most character meals are served buffet-style. I am not a huge fan of buffets but Disney does everything well, and buffets are no exception. For dinner, expect kid-friendly food like macaroni and cheese, pizza, and chicken plus some especially delicious desserts. For breakfast, you will find made-to-order omelets, pastries, Mickey-shaped waffles, and other tasty treats. Ariel’s Grotto is the only character meal option that serves a sit-down, three-course meal of appetizers, main course, and dessert.
Characters? We saw a multitude of characters at this meal, from Minnie herself to Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother.
The Verdict? Dining with Minnie with a view of Tomorrowland’s Asto Orbitor was a wonderful start to our day at Disneyland. However, I’d rather not “waste” precious park time eating a long breakfast. I suggest eating a character meal at one of the hotels either on the day of arrival or departure to squeeze in some extra Disney magic on a day when you don’t want to spend your money or time at the parks.
Tips? Be sure to request a seat indoors when you make your reservation and again when you check in so you can get out of the heat or the cold, as the case may be. The pink stained glass mosaics inside are darling, plus you will feel more “a part of the action.”
Characters? Chip n’ Dale and other woodland characters like Brother Bear and Winnie the Pooh.
The Verdict? Children who have their hearts set on seeing a specific character may be a tad disappointed to be greeted by the array of woodsy creatures here. On the other hand, kids collecting signatures might be pleased to find some off-the-beaten-path characters to sign their autograph books!
Tips? Don’t follow the characters around the restaurant. Enjoy your meal and they will come to you! (This is true of all Disney character meals.)
Goofy’s Kitchen Where? Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel.
Meals offered? Brunch and dinner.
Characters? The only character guaranteed to make an appearance at any meal is the meal’s namesake. So, for sure you’ll see Goofy here. You are likely to see other classic characters like Pluto, Donald Duck and the like.
The Verdict? Watching the kids dance with Goofy was definitely the highlight and added a little something special to this meal. Goofy parades about the restaurant before clumsily “spilling” a bunch of clanking, non-breakable dishes. Then he invites children to join him in making music by banging the dropped plates and bowls.
Tips? This will soon be the only Disney restaurant offering a character dinner, so if you want to dine with characters in the evening, book this one early!
Ariel’s Disney Princess Celebration Where? Ariel’s Grotto in Disney’s California Adventure Resort (so you must have a Disney’s California Adventure entrance ticket to dine here).
Meals Offered? Breakfast and lunch. In mid-June 2010, dinners at Ariel’s Grotto will no longer feature the princesses. Instead a special World of Color dining experience will be offered here in the evenings only.
Characters? Ariel and other princesses like Cinderella, Belle, Jasmine, and Aurora. Unlike the masked characters, the princesses talk to diners and never break character. My husband said, “You really look like Snow White.” To which she replied in her tiny, bubble gum voice, “Why, whatever do you mean?”
The Verdict? For a little girl, this is the ultimate treat for a birthday or other celebration. Younger children scared of plush characters will find the princesses less intimidating. My son, Leo, was 19-months-old when we visited and he seemed just as enthralled as his big sister by all of these sweet, beautiful women stopping by his table to say hello. I enjoyed the more relaxing, upscale dining experience of this only sit-down Disney character dining option. Hors d’oeuvres and mini pastries are presented on tiered trays, adding to the fanciful feel of the meal.
Tips? There is both indoor and outdoor seating at Ariel’s Grotto. Make your preference known when making a reservation and checking in.
Characters? Mickey Mouse and other Disney characters.
The Verdict? This is the newest Disneyland character meal. We ate here back when Lilo & Stitch were the title characters. Attendance seemed low to me, probably due to the hotel’s slightly longer walking distance from the theme parks and because Lilo & Stitch don’t draw the crowds like the more well-known characters. It looks like Disney is going all out to draw diners here by having the head cheese himself, Mickey Mouse, as the headliner. I’ve never seen Mickey at any of the other meals, so that just might do it. Plus, this meal offers interactive activities with the characters, who show youngsters how to surf and do the hula hoop.
Tips? Save a seat for me! Since I haven’t attended this newly-revised character meal, this gives me an excuse to head back to Disneyland to check it out. (All for you, dear readers, all for you!)
More Character Meal Tips Some young children are fearful of these life-sized cartoon characters. Before attending a character meal, you may want to get your little one acquainted with Disney creatures by reading books featuring Disney characters, watching Mickey Mouse Playhouse or other shows on the Disney Channel, or renting a couple of Disney movies. Also, consider waiting until after your tot has had a day in the parks to get used to the idea of the characters at a distance before plunging into a character meal.
An autograph book brings a whole new, entertaining dimension to the character meal experience. Hold off purchasing one until your child is old enough to appreciate it. My daughter, Karissa, requested her first autograph book at age five and proudly brought it to preschool for “show & tell” the following week.
Whatever you do, don’t forget your camera! Shots of your kids cuddling up to their favorite Disney characters are priceless.
Reservations are recommended for all of the character meals and can be made up to 60 days in advance by calling 714-781-3463. Call as soon as you know you will be attending; you can always cancel later.
What is your favorite Disney character meal? Leave a comment below!
A note from the Travel Mama: My family and I recently received free passes to Disneyland so that I could review the Breakfast with Minnie at The Plaza Inn. We paid for all of the meals mentioned in this post ourselves. I will always let you know if I receive any complimentary or discounted goods or services in conjunction with a story on TravelMamas.com.
You might think of Disneyland as purely a playground for children, but there is plenty of grown-up Disney fun to be had too!
The Fifth Annual Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival will take place April 16 through May 31 this year. This sounds like the perfect event for foodies, wine afficianados, and those looking for a creative way to celebrate a birthday or anniversary.
Celebrity Chef Guy Fieri doing a cooking demonstration at the festival
Participants can watch culinary demonstrations by celebrity chefs like Guy Fieri, Cat Cora and David Irvine. There will be wine, beer, and spirit seminars and tastings as well as opportunities to sample tasty creations by Disney chefs.
Napa Rose’s Executive Chef Andrew Sutton teaching a cooking class
You could even take cooking class taught by the Napa Rose’s Chef Andrew Sutton. Last year my husband and I savored a tasting menu prepared by Chef Sutton himself for our wedding anniversary dinner. Believe me, that man knows how to cook! Read about our delectable meal in my story, Romance at Disneyland.
Watch this little video to get a feel for the event.
I felt naked as I walked down Disneyland’s Main Street, so odd was it to not push a baby in a stroller or pull a dawdling four-year-old through the crowd. I surprised my husband with an overnight romantic getaway at Disneyland for our wedding anniversary last summer. I felt a tad guilty visiting the Happiest Place on Earth without the kids, and I worried my husband would find our destination less than romantic. However, I quickly realized just how freeing and romantic a child-free Disney trip can be.
Me with the hubs at Disneyland for our 8th wedding anniversary
Simple Pleasures
My husband, Phil, and I started by touring all the rides normally off-limits with wee ones. First we rode Space Mountain (my personal favorite), then the Matterhorn Bobsleds (with the “scary” Abominable Snowman) and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (the twisting mine train roller coaster). We practically ran from one site to another, holding hands like teenagers in love.
We searched for our photo snapped while aboard Space Mountain. My husband was grinning so wide in the picture that some other Disney-goers giggled and pointed at his expression. Phil told them, “That’s what I looked like in all my wedding photos – I was so happy.”
Phil and I paused between grown-up rides long enough to split a churro, which seemed like a glorious indulgence since my daughter is a churro-hog and usually I’m lucky if I get a couple of bites.
Then we hit the Haunted Mansion. A little boy around my daughter’s age almost broke my heart when he wailed, “No quiero!” as his parents carried the preschooler aboard the ride.
Wine-tasting at Disney’s California Adventure Park
Remembering Couplehood After lunch at my favorite Disneyland buffet-service eatery, French Market Restaurant in New Orleans Square, we popped into Crystal d’Orleans, where the shopkeeper was etching a name into a glass mug. A woman in her late sixties asked me which of the two necklaces she should buy, the blue or the purple. We learned that she and her husband celebrate their anniversary at Disneyland every year – this year was their twenty-ninth. When we told them it was our anniversary, the husband said, “May you always be as happy together as you are today.” Phil and I smiled at each other, appreciating that our love was shining through – not clouded by the back-and-forth order-giving that often accompanies parenthood.
At the California Adventure Parkwe tasted a flight of three one-ounce white wines for $10 in the Golden State, an activity in which we’ve never been able to indulge with the kiddies in tow. We lingered for a while in the shade and rested our feet. It was so peaceful, so relaxing, so not like our usual family vacations of non-stop hustle, soothe, and wipe.
Phil had been looking forward to riding the huge roller coaster, California Screamin’ from the minute I told him our destination that morning. However, my balance was off from so many fast rides and a wee bit of wine. Instead, we made bets about who would be the best shot on the new Toy Story Mania, which is half-ride, half-carnival-game. Apparently I still owe him a massage.
Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel
Celebrating Romance We strolled across the street to our hotel to shower and ready for our “date night.” We stayed at the Paradise Pier Hotel, the least expensive of the three on-site Disney resorts. It has a fanciful beach-theme and all the charm you’d expect from Disney, with a slightly longer walking distance to the parks.
To help us celebrate our anniversary, the bubbly gal at check-in upgraded us from a standard room to one on the top floor with a view of the California Adventure Park. Room service also made us feel special by delivering two complimentary chocolate-dipped, Mickey-shaped crispy rice treats that afternoon.
I had made dinner reservations for the evening at the Chef’s Counter at Napa Rose, the upscale wine country cuisine restaurant located in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel. We were seated practically inside the open kitchen, at a counter where we could see all of the action. Executive Chef Andrew Sutton asked our preferences – no artichokes and easy on the red meat for me – open season for Phil. Then he and his staff prepared a multicourse tasting menu for us that would leave the toughest food critic pleasantly stuffed. We felt like our foodie dream had come true as we imagined we were guest judges on one of our favorite cable TV cooking competition shows.
Hand-harvested diver scallops at Napa Rose at the Grand Californian Resort
It was supposed to be a four-course meal, but the chef surprised us with three additional mini courses. From the amuse bouche of pureed cantaloupe and honeydew with crispy prosciutto, to the tempura lobster salad served on a bed of greens with coconut lemongrass dressing, each dish was a celebration unto itself.
To top off the meal, Pastry Chef Graciela Cordero served us not two, but three desserts because, as she said, “We take care of our guests at the counter.” The winning dessert was the crème brulee in pastry crust served with fresh raspberries. Phil and I delighted in watching Graciela caramelize the sugar crystals into a sweet crispy lacquer with a mini blow torch.
Phil and I toasted our eight years of marriage and exchanged sappy anniversary cards. I gave him a pair of Mickey Mouse boxer shorts, purchased at the park earlier in the day. Neither of us had to walk the baby through the restaurant or worry about our children tossing crayons at the other diners. We talked, and listened, and even snuck in a smooch every now and then.
To top it all off, we were given a box of four chocolate truffles made on-site as a souvenir of our delectable meal. The meal was not cheap, but I highly recommend this unforgettable experience as splurge for a special occasion. To make reservations for the Chef’s Counter, call 714-300-7170.
Before heading back to the hotel, we ended the night with a romantic stroll through Disneyland to do one more thing we usually miss on family Disney trips due to an early kids’ curfew; take a peek at Sleeping Beauty’s Castle all lit up with pink, turquoise, and purple lights.
Why Disneyland for a Romantic Getaway? Disneyland is the perfect place for children. Why, then, should you choose Disney for a romantic getaway? Because sometimes it’s nice to ride scary rides…and eat an uninterrupted meal in a nice restaurant…and do whatever makes YOU happy…for as long as YOU want…without worrying about bedtimes and potty breaks.And, because visiting Disneyland without kids reminds you of how it feels to be a kid, rather than caring for kids.
Our Disney getaway was exactly what we needed: to connect, to have fun, to feel carefree and in love. What could be more romantic than that?
Would you consider a Disney trip for a romantic getaway? Why or why not? Please leave a comment below!
A Note from The Travel Mama: We gained entrance to the Disneyland and California Adventure Parks using our Annual Passes, for which we paid full-price. We did not receive any discounts on our hotel or dining due to my status as a travel writer. I will always let you know if I receive any sort of discount or complimentary goods or services related to a blog post.
Although I have been to Disneyland a multitude of times, up until last week, I had never visited during the holiday season. Now that I have experienced the happiest time of the year at the Happiest Place on Earth, I defy Scrooge himself to remain cranky during a trip to Disneyland during the holidays.
My son, Leo, and I standing in front of the
huge Christmas tree on Disneyland’s Main Street
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas! A trip to Disneyland during the holidays is worthwhile, even if only to stroll down the quintessentially Christmas-y Main Street. Of course, the decorations don’t end on Main Street. Throughout Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure Park, everything is doused with greenery, ornaments, and twinkling lights. You can’t miss Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, in the center of the park all dolled up with snow, icicles, and lights galore.
Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle
Haunted Mansion Holiday It is worth waiting in an enormous line to see the Haunted Mansion Holiday…for older kids and adults. The attraction is transformed with a jack-o-lantern-laden, red and green “Nightmare Before Christmas” theme during the Halloween and Christmas seasons. This ride may be a bit too spooky for youngsters; I’d say hold off on this one until age six or so.
“it’s a small world” decked out with holiday lights
“it’s a small world” Holiday Celebration This ride is an absolute must-see at Christmastime. Yes, the line is long. Yes, you will get the cutesy song stuck in your head. Yes, your children will adore the animatronic dolls representing cultures from around the world dressed up in their holiday finest. The China display features fireworks in red and gold to commemorate Chinese New Year, while Polynesia wishes you a “Mele Kalikimaka” and includes hula dancers jingling in unison with strings of bells draped across their hips. Try to hit “it’s a small world” holiday early in the day before the line gets too long and stimulation-overload sets in.
A Christmas Fantasy Parade
A Christmas Fantasy Parade Usually we skip the parades during our Disney visits. Rather than waiting with two wriggling kids for a viewing spot along the parade route, we use parade time to take advantage of shorter ride lines. On this trip, however, I got a sampling of what I have been missing out on. The Christmas Fantasy Parade features dancers, spinning snowmen, and trumpet-playing toy soldiers, plus floats topped with everyone’s favorite characters. Most impressive was the float on which Mickey and Minnie skated across a real ice rink!
The parade was my four-year-old daughter’s admitted favorite part of our holiday visit. When I asked her why she liked it so much, she looked at me as though I had reindeer antlers growing out of my head and said, “Because it ended with Santa Claus!”
Well, duh, of course!
My daugher, Karissa, posing with a festive Pluto and Donald Duck
Holiday-Clad Characters Be sure to find your favorite characters decked out in their festive sweaters and scarves. You may even get a holiday-card-worthy photo out of it! Kids love to meet their favorite Disney characters. Parents love to snap those adorable photos. My daughter is stubborn about getting her picture taken so I take full advantage of Disney character meetings as the one time she merrily smiles for the camera.
My kids munching on Disney’s holiday brownies and cookies
Tasty Treats Bring a sweet tooth and leave the diet at home during your Disneyland holiday visit. My family and I enjoyed brownies topped with red and green candies as well as snowman-shaped sugar cookies. And, next year, I vow to sample more holiday treats!
I stumbled across Guy’s Disney Holiday on the Food Network just after our visit. I wish I had seen this special featuring Guy Fieri BEFORE we went! Who knew I should have been on the lookout for waffle ice cream cones dipped in chocolate and crushed candy canes? Or Yule logs made of chocolate sponge cake, butter cream, and chocolate ganache?
Santa’s Reindeer Roundup Apparently there are live reindeer and “western fun” at Santa’s Reindeer Roundup at Big Thunder Ranch. According to the Disneyland website, Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Pluto the rein-dog can be found here in addition to festive face-painting.
I’m sorry to say we missed this attraction during our visit. It’s hard enough to squeeze in everyone’s favorite rides and shows on a regular day, much less when there are special parades and holiday-themed attractions to see! The summer crowds were nothing compared to the crush of people we experienced during our Christmastime visit. My advice? Plan to go for at least two days. One day just wasn’t enough!
“a bug’s land” holiday decorations
Magic in “a bug’s land” Head over to ”a bug’s land” at Disney’s California Adventure to pose before giant Christmas ornaments and humongous glowing holiday lights.
My favorite memory of our Disneyland holiday adventure took place over here when I took my ride-phobic 21-month-old son, Leo, on Flik’s Flyers. It’s a circular flying ride, much like Dumbo, but with giant pretend boxes of animal crackers, Chinese take-out, or raisins functioning as the cars instead of elephants.
Leo said, “No, no, no” and clung tightly to me as we boarded the ride. But I sat him on my lap and whispered reassuring words into his ear and he settled down. I could feel his body tense as we slowly took flight, but he didn’t cry. He just leaned his head into my chest hard and stared at the wonder of the world whipping past him. He’s getting to be a big boy in a world full of so many things to explore and it’s hard to get him to slow down long enough to snuggle up with me too much anymore. As I rubbed my chin across the tufts of his fine baby hair, I wondered how much longer will the world seem completely safe to him, just as long as he is with his mama. It was one of those moments you want to stop and bottle up and keep forever – just the two of us flying through the crisp winter air together.
Beyond the decorations, treats and shows – this is what I love about Disneyland – magical moments that I will carry with me forever.
What is your favorite Disney holiday memory? Do you have any questions about visiting Disneyland during the holidays? Please leave a comment below!
Disclosure: My family and I received free one-day Park Hopper passes as part of Disneyland’s Family Media Day. This did not affect the content of this post in any way. I love Disneyland no matter who pays!
Before I brought my daughter to Disneyland to celebrate her first birthday, some well-meaning friends warned, “It’s better to wait until she’s five or six to go. What’s the point in taking her now? She won’t even remember it.” But when I held my birthday girl in my arms as we soared through the air on Dumbo’s back and she clapped her hands, grinning and baring her two teeth, I knew that moment mattered. Even if she doesn’t remember it, for that moment she and I were soaring through joy.
As a Disneyland enthusiast and former Annual Passholder, I have since visited the Happiest Place on Earth a multitude of times with my two young children. Many parents worry there are not enough rides for babies and toddlers, but amusements for all ages abound at Disneyland. The best part is the entire family can enjoy most attractions together.
Here are my favorite Disneyland rides and attractions for babies and toddlers:
1. Dumbo the Flying Elephant in Fantasyland
After failing to get my daughter (then age three) to ride Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride and instead taking my infant son, who clawed at my face with fear throughout, I have given up waiting out the ridiculously long lines for the dark rides in Fantasyland. Instead, we head to everyone’s favorite flying elephant.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
2. It’s a Small World in Fantasyland
It is worth getting the cutesy Small World song stuck in your head all day for the smiles this ride will induce for your child. Plus, you get a big return (an eight-minute ride) for your small investment (typically a brief wait in line).
It’s a Small World
3. A Bug’s Land at Disney’s California Adventure
This area includes three rides for little ones that you can hit pretty quickly since the lines tend to be minimal. While Tuck and Roll’s Drive’Em Buggies bumper cars are fun for preschoolers, the other two rides are wonderful choices for kids and babies alike. There is Flik’s Flyers, which is a slightly less magical version of Dumbo’s ride, and Heimlich’s Chew Chew Train, for which you board a talking caterpillar who chews his way though a garden of sweet-smelling treats like watermelon and animal crackers. Wait until kids are older to brave the 3-D film It’s Tough to Be a Bug! I took my daughter when she was a little over age two. Too scary!
Tuck and Roll’s Drive’Em Buggies
4. Minnie’s House in Mickey’s Toontown When you tire of waiting in lines, this walk-though attraction keeps toddling kids busy with dials and buttons galore.
Minnie’s House
5. Jungle Cruise in Adventureland
Here’s an old-school ride for the whole family. Adults will chuckle (or groan) at the humorous commentary of the adventure guides. As for the kids, I remember believing I had actually been to Africa and back when I embarked on this ride during my first trip to Disney World at age four.
6. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh in Critter Country
This brightly colored, sweet ride is one of my daughter’s all-time favorite rides! I keep hoping my (ride-shy) son will warm to it, but perhaps the psychodelic Heffalump scene and loopy feel are not his cup of milk. Most non-ride-phobic kids will love this one.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
7. Mickey’s Fun Wheel at Disney’s California Adventure’s Paradise Pier
Formerly the Sun Wheel, this huge Ferris wheel provides a great aerial view of the park. Skip the long lines for the swinging, scarier gondolas and opt for the milder, merely-swaying ones.
Mickey’s Fun Wheel
8. Disneyland Railroad
I have yet to meet a child who is not enthralled by choo-choo trains! You can climb aboard or disembark at Main Street U.S.A., Tomorrowland, Mickey’s Toontown, or New Orleans Square. The best part is the “surprise” trip through the Grand Canyon and Primeval World (a scene of Animatronic dinosaurs) between Tomorrowland and Main Street.
Historic photo of Walt Disney aboard the Disneyland Railroad (Photo Courtesy of Disneyland)
9. The Enchanted Tiki Room in Adventureland Birds and flowers serenade the audience in this pleasant indoor show, giving you time out of the sun (or rain, as the case may be) to rest your tootsies while the baby nurses or sips a bottle. Beware of a brief, somewhat scary tropical thunderstorm at the end of the show.
The Enchanted Tiki Room
10. King Triton’s Carousel at Disney’s California Adventure’s Paradise Pier or King Arthur’s Carousel in Fantasyland
Whether you choose Triton’s underwater-themed carousel with seahorses, whales, and other ride-able sea creatures or you choose Arthur’s classic hand-carved horses, most tots love a carousel! It may seem like a boring choice to grown-ups, but not so for the kiddos!
King Triton’s Carousel
What are your favorite rides for young children at Disneyland or Disney World? Leave a comment below!
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