There’s no place like home for the holidays — and by “home,” we mean Disneyland, of course! The holidays are in full swing at our happy place, and Perfecting the Magic has the best tips on how to spend Christmas at Disneyland!
From November 12th through January 9th, you can find holiday cheer everywhere you look at Disneyland Resort, and today we’re rounding up our must-dos for the 2021 Christmas season.
You can find Disneyland holiday details on the official website, but, read on for our favorites this year!
Watch the Christmas Tree Lighting in Both Parks
Did you know that Disneyland and Disney California Adventure have nightly tree lighting ceremonies? Every evening before the sun goes down (typically around 4:45-5 p.m.), guests can watch a special tree lighting ceremony in Town Square in Disneyland and Carthay Circle in Disney California Adventure.
Enhance the experience by mobile ordering a holiday treat from Candy Palace or Trolley Treats to enjoy while watching the tree illuminate the night!
Take in the Sights of Sleeping Beauty Castle During Both Day and Night
There is nothing like a castle at Christmastime. Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle is so special. During the holiday season, the castle completely transforms. The tinsel, wreaths, ornaments, and icicles add wintertime magic to the castle facade.
Be sure to spend some time taking in the sights of Sleeping Beauty Castle during the day and after the sun goes down. Trust us when we say that the best photo spots are to the left and right of the castle — avoid that long line for photos directly in front!
See the Dapper Dans Perform Holiday Tunes
The Dapper Dans are a Disneyland staple, and they make even more magic during the holiday season. From November through early January, the Dapper Dans sing classic Christmas songs. There’s nothing quite like hearing Disneyland’s barbershop quartet sing “Home for the Holidays” on Main Street, U.S.A.; it’s the perfect way to spend Christmas at Disneyland.
Meet Mirabel from Encanto
The newest film from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Encanto, is being celebrated at Disney California Adventure this year as part of the Festival of Holidays and Viva Navidad. We’re so excited that guests can meet Mirabel, the movie’s main character, all season long. Head to Paradise Gardens Park for this fantastic new meet and greet!
After you meet Mirabel, be sure to pick up an Impossible Arepa Encantada from the Grandma’s Recipes festival booth. You won’t regret it! Be sure to enjoy Gingerbread and Cocoa at the Grand California, too!
While there are many locations throughout the theme parks where you can enjoy that cozy Disney atmosphere during this special time of year, there’s one spot where the holiday vibes are immaculate (and it’s actually outside the parks!).
The Grand Californian
Head to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and pick up a gingerbread cookie and a cup of cocoa from the treat cart in the hotel lobby. You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy the lobby, so find a comfy chair, listen to the relaxing piano music, and enjoy the sights of the Grand’s Christmas tree and gingerbread house while you lounge in style!
Spread the Holiday Happiness
We love sharing our favorite things with all of you, but this list is just the beginning. There’s so much more the parks have in store this season, from delicious food to limited-time entertainment. We can’t wait to share our Disney Christmas content with you.
Comment your favorite ways to celebrate the holidays at Disney below and follow us on TikTok and our other socials for even more seasonal fun!
