Insider’s Guide to the Holidays at Disneyland® Resort in Anaheim

There’s no place quite like Disneyland® Resort during the holidays. It’s the best time of year to soak up the magic, with extra special holiday fireworks, the twinkling lights of Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, and of course, a warming dash of Anaheim sunshine in mid-winter! Here, we give you the in-the-know, Anaheim guide to the best of Disneyland® Resort during the holidays.

Classic Christmas Magic at Disneyland® Park

From the moment you hit Main Street, U.S.A., it’s an avalanche of holiday nostalgia. No holiday season at Disneyland® Resort is complete without the annual A Christmas Fantasy Parade. Held from November 14 through January 7, this dazzling procession features beloved Disney characters (think Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and the gang), prancing reindeer, and of course, Santa Claus himself! The parade route winds through Disneyland® Park, so grab a spot along Main Street, U.S.A. and catch all the action! Over in Fantasyland, “it’s a small world” Holiday becomes the happiest light show on earth, with 300,000 bulbs and a multilingual carol mashup. And yes, Santa’s in town this holiday season! Find him greeting guests near Critter Country or Redwood Creek, depending on the day.

Insider Tip#1: Parade times can shift, so check the Disneyland® Mobile App and try to show up at least 20 minutes ahead to secure a curbside spot near Matterhorn Way.

Insider Tip #2: The area around “it's a small world” attraction offers some of the best parade views, so arrive early and secure the best seat in the house!

Insider Tip #3: The famous Mickey-shaped gingerbread cookie at Jolly Holiday Bakery Café tends to sell out before noon. Grab one early and thank us later!

Fun-Filled Festivities at Disney California Adventure® Park

Over at Disney California Adventure® Park, the Festival of Holidays celebrates holiday traditions from around the globe with food booths and live bands and is a celebration of diverse cultural traditions with a delicious twist. Festive marketplaces offer culinary delights inspired by Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, and other holiday celebrations from around the world. Don't miss the chance to sample seasonal treats like gingerbread man cookies, peppermint churros, and hot cocoa with marshmallows – among other tasty delights.

Remember to snag a Sip and Savor Pass if you plan to focus on foodie activities, and it’ll save you time and money!

Insider Tip #4: The neon lights turn on around sunset. Grab a seat by Flo’s V8 Café in Cars Land for unbeatable photo ops. 

Experience the “Believe...In Holiday Magic” Fireworks Show

As night falls over Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle, prepare to be amazed by Disneyland® Park’s Believe...In Holiday Magic fireworks spectacular. This breathtaking display illuminates the sky with glittering colors and festive character shapes, all set to a heartwarming soundtrack of holiday classics and Disney tunes.

Insider Tip #5: For the ultimate viewing experience, find a spot near the castle or along Rivers of America.

Join the Festive Fun at Disney ¡Viva Navidad!

Celebrate the joyous spirit of Latinx holiday traditions at Disney ¡Viva Navidad! in Paradise Gardens Park, November 14 through January 7. This lively celebration features vibrant décor, festive music, and delicious food inspired by holiday celebrations south of the border. Don't miss the Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party for a chance to dance along with Disney characters including the beloved Three Caballeros! You’ll also have plenty of meet-and-greet opportunities with Mirabel from the animated film Encanto.